In Tashkent, a couple has been arrested on charges of illegal trafficking in human organs and tissues. This information emerged on February 18, as reported by the press service of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Uzbekistan.
According to the agency, a 37-year-old man, previously convicted of hooliganism, acted in collusion with his wife. The couple published videos on social media, including those featuring children who allegedly needed donor organs, in an attempt to attract potential donors and clients. The footage provided by the Ministry of Internal Affairs shows a Telegram group called "Need a donor (sic) kidney," where more than 100 participants shared their financial difficulties and willingness to sell an organ.
According to the investigation, the suspect, who had previously undergone a kidney transplant himself, transported people to the "Istiklol" clinic in Dushanbe (Tajikistan) for surgeries. Individuals who assisted him were also identified, including a social media administrator.
Criminal proceedings have been initiated against the suspects under part 2 of Article 133-1 of the Criminal Code of Uzbekistan, concerning the sale and purchase of human organs and tissues, committed repeatedly or by a dangerous recidivist in conspiracy by a group of individuals. The penalty for this article provides for imprisonment for a term of 5 to 10 years. The suspects have already been detained.
The Ministry of Internal Affairs reminded that in September 2025, the activities of a group of 12 people engaged in illegal organ transplantation were prevented. At that time, they sent donors to foreign clinics, passing them off as relatives, and over two years, 32 surgeries were performed.
According to the legislation of Uzbekistan adopted in 2022, the purchase and sale and export of transplantable organs and tissues are strictly prohibited. Surgeries can only be performed in state medical institutions, although the possibility of allowing private clinics is currently being discussed. That same year, criminal liability was introduced for coercing citizens into consenting to the removal of organs or tissues for transplantation, as well as for other crimes in this area.
