In Navoi, a convict tried to receive $15,000 in exchange for the release of another convict.

A convict in Navoi was caught demanding $15,000 to release another convict. This was reported by the Sevimli TV channel.

In penal colony No. 4 in Navoi region, a convict tried to extort money in exchange for the early release of his partner. The suspect gained the trust of a fellow convict serving his sentence and promised to release him through his brother's acquaintances in high positions. For this illegal service, he asked for $15,000, of which $10,000 was paid in advance.

While receiving the agreed money, the convict's acquaintance outside the prison was detained by the prosecutor's office and internal affairs officers. A criminal case has been opened under Articles 211 (bribery) and 168 (fraud) of the Criminal Code.

According to the TV channel's video, "a criminal group was formed in this act, which was joined by a student who is at large and currently studying in Tashkent. He was arrested mainly for collecting money from persons serving sentences in the institution and delivering it to the necessary places. Investigative actions are currently being carried out."

Today, a total of 47,432 convicts are serving their sentences in 49 penal institutions in Uzbekistan. In particular, there are 26,000 convicts in closed colonies, and more than 11,000 in residential colonies. For comparison, in 2022, there were 54 penal institutions in the country, where more than 29,000 convicts were reportedly held.