Former Tashkent tax chief goes on trial over embezzlement

The Shaykhantakhur District Criminal Court in Uzbekistan is hearing the case against Yunusjon Nasimjanov, former head of the Tashkent City Tax Service, and Alisher Ganiev, former deputy head of the City Office of the Department under the Prosecutor General’s Office.

Nasimjanov is charged with embezzlement and abuse of authority, while Ganiev faces charges of abuse of authority and illegal border crossing, Caliber.Az reports via Uzbek media.

Nasimjanov is charged under Articles 167, concerning embezzlement by misappropriation or misapplication of funds, and 205, concerning abuse of power or official authority. He headed the capital’s tax service from 2021 to 2026.

Ganiev is charged under Articles 205 and 223, concerning illegal departure from Uzbekistan or entry into the country.

Both officials were removed from their positions following a meeting chaired by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev on January 27. The meeting ordered an investigation into Nasimjanov’s activities and called for measures to be taken within the law.

Regarding Ganiev, officials said he had helped so-called “businessmen” evade taxes. The meeting also criticised the work of the capital’s law enforcement and tax agencies.

Earlier, businessman Mumindjon Yuldashev from the Fergana region was reported to have been placed on an Interpol international wanted list.

By Sabina Mammadli