Scrap dealer who used online platform to defraud sellers detained following Kun.uz investigation

Abdunazarov, a native of Jizzakh, reportedly deceived numerous individuals across different regions of Uzbekistan. His arrest was confirmed by the press service of the Jizzakh regional police department in a statement to Kun.uz.

According to the information, 25-year-old Shohruh Abdunazarov was taken into custody on June 2, 2025, by officers of the internal affairs investigation department. A criminal case has been opened against him under Article 168, Part 3, Clause “b” of the Criminal Code (fraud on a large scale). Investigative procedures are currently underway.

Earlier, Kun.uz had published an investigative report exposing Abdunazarov’s alleged scam. According to the findings, the 26-year-old man would browse OLX for listings of old heavy vehicles, offer a small upfront payment of 5–10 million UZS, and purchase them on credit. He would then scrap the vehicles for cash.

Following the publication of the investigation, many more victims came forward and contacted Kun.uz with similar complaints.

Previously, the spokesperson of the Jizzakh regional police had issued an official statement regarding the case. He confirmed that a criminal case had been initiated against Abdunazarov on May 2 this year, and that authorities were preparing to bring him in forcibly. He had also warned that if those efforts proved unsuccessful, an arrest in absentia and a search warrant would be issued.