Uzbekistan Shuts Down Call Centre Network Scamming Russian Citizens
Uzbekistan has uncovered a criminal scheme that targeted, among others, Russian citizens, according to the Press Service of the State Security Service (SSS) of Uzbekistan.
Authorities in Fergana Region identified a criminal group that had been illegally obtaining large sums of money. A video released by the SSS shows the arrest of 32 individuals. The perpetrators operated from three call centres—two in Fergana and one in Tashkent.
According to RIA Novosti, which cited the video footage, the scheme was organised by a Fergana resident who led an entire network specialising in the fraudulent acquisition of funds from Russian citizens.
The investigation revealed that the fraudsters used personal data of Russians who had previously purchased biologically active supplements (BAS) online. Posing as law enforcement officers, they convinced victims that they were entitled to compensation for alleged moral damages. Another group of fraudsters, masquerading as representatives of the Russian Ministry of Finance, promised payouts—but only after the victims paid income tax upfront.
To claim the promised compensation, victims were instructed to make a mandatory deposit to specified accounts, under the pretext that the funds could not be transferred without this payment.
As a result, the fraudulent scheme was dismantled, and its participants were arrested. A criminal case has been opened on charges related to fraud and unauthorised access to computer information. The investigation is ongoing.
