Police officers in Uzbekistan have prevented an attempt to transport a 37-year-old woman to Türkiye for exploitation.

The incident took place at Tashkent International Airport during coordinated operational measures by law enforcement agencies, The Caspian Post reports via Uzbek media.

According to the Fergana regional police department, a woman living in Izmir, Türkiye, contacted a resident of the Fergana region, 37, and persuaded her to travel abroad with the promise of high earnings.

An electronic ticket was arranged for a route from Tashkent to Istanbul and then onward to Izmir. Investigators say the intended purpose of the trip was exploitation for personal gain.

The suspect was stopped before departure by officers from internal affairs bodies and the State Security Service.

A criminal case has been opened under Article 135 of the Criminal Code, which covers human trafficking. Investigations are ongoing as authorities continue to examine the circumstances of the case and possible wider involvement.