Uzbekistan Police Bust Illegal Crypto Scheme Worth 180 Billion UZS

Tashkent law enforcement authorities have arrested six individuals in connection with an illegal cryptocurrency operation involving transactions exceeding 180 billion Uzbek soums.

The bust was carried out by the Cybersecurity Center under the Ministry of Internal Affairs’ Rapid Investigation Department, which uncovered the group's unauthorized crypto activities, The Caspian Post reports, citing Uzbek media.

The six suspects, detained in the Yashnobod district, allegedly provided services to foreign online gambling companies, facilitating the transfer and legalization of gambling proceeds through the Decent cryptocurrency platform.

Investigators say the group operated for approximately eight months, conducting illicit circulation of crypto assets exceeding 180 billion UZS.

During the operation, authorities seized 38 mobile phones and nearly 1,000 bank cards used to launder money, which are now held as evidence.

A criminal case has been opened against the suspects under the Criminal Code’s provisions on violations in the circulation of crypto assets by organized groups.