Published
05/22/2025, 12:08A large-scale illegal currency legalization channel operating under the so-called “gypsy mail” scheme has been shut down in Bishkek. According to the State Committee for National Security, two Kyrgyz citizens were detained as a result of investigative and operational measures.
The investigation established that the detainees systematically carried out illegal currency transactions at exchange offices in the capital. The money, which came mainly from Russia, was cashed without any registration with the official financial authorities. The total amount of illegal turnover exceeded $20 million.
In some cases, the perpetrators failed to fulfill their obligations. For example, in May last year, a Kyrgyz citizen handed over 165 million rubles, equivalent to $2 million, for exchange. However, this amount was embezzled by the fraudsters.
Earlier this week, on May 20, both suspects were detained and, by decision of the Oktyabrsky District Court of Bishkek, were placed in investigative facility No. 21 of the State Penitentiary Service.
