Police officers in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, have closed two illegal religious schools where children were reportedly subjected to physical abuse.

The schools were run by a private university teacher and his student in the Yangihayat district, The Caspian Post reports via Uzbek media.

A total of 14 children were enrolled, including a child of a Tajik citizen.

Investigators confiscated 49 religious books, 24 notebooks with lessons, and a laptop from one of the schools.

The investigation revealed that pupils suffered injuries of varying severity while attending these illegal institutions.

Police are continuing their probe, emphasizing the protection of children and strict enforcement against unauthorized educational operations in Uzbekistan.