In the latest court session for the "Bakhti Tashkentsky" case, the defendants' final statements were heard.

In his final statement, Bakhtiyor Kudratullaev asked the court to show leniency to those behind bars.

“We had no ill intentions. For example, what we did was meant to prevent stabbings, involvement with psychotropic pills, and other such issues. These are not kids involved in serious crimes. My sons are sitting here, and one of them is ill.

Some of these children are married, and some are not. Some have elderly mothers. I hope they don’t have the same regret as I do: my mother passed away a year before my release from prison, and I couldn't even attend her burial.

We are not terrorists, corrupt officials, or cannibals. We have never acted against the state. If possible, please show leniency to the boys sitting here,” said Bakhtiyor Kudratullaev in his final statement.

Additionally, Nargiza Jumaniyozova, the only woman among the defendants, asked for the verdict to consider her four children.

“I have been slandered. I have brought shame to my mother. How will my children hold their heads high tomorrow when they hear I’ve been imprisoned? I have to face my parents. The stigma of being a thief’s ‘mistress’ and an ex-prisoner will stay with me for life. Please, judge us with mercy,” said Jumaniyozova.

In the criminal case being overseen by Judge Tolibjon Obidov at the Yunusabad Criminal Court, the panel of judges has entered deliberations to issue a verdict.

The verdict is expected to be announced on July 19.