Counterfeit cash operation busted in Karakalpakstan: Eight suspects face criminal charges

Officers from the Anti-Smuggling Department of the Main Customs Office of the Republic of Karakalpakstan, in cooperation with law enforcement agencies, uncovered a criminal group in the Takhiyatosh district that was attempting to circulate counterfeit Uzbek sums produced through makeshift methods.

During a special operation, the suspects were caught red-handed while trying to sell counterfeit currency totaling 7.5 million UZS in denominations of 200,000, 100,000, 50,000, and 20,000. In exchange for the fake notes, the individual intended to receive 2.5 million UZS in genuine currency.

The operation continued, and based on the detained suspect’s testimony, the homes of other individuals suspected of involvement were searched.

During the searches, a laptop, a color printer, scissors, and various-sized rulers used in the production of counterfeit money were seized.

A criminal case has been initiated against eight individuals under Part 2 of Article 176 of the Criminal Code of Uzbekistan (Manufacturing and Selling Counterfeit Currency, Excise Stamps, or Securities). An investigation is currently underway.