Border guards have foiled a smartphone smuggling operation at the ‘Ak-Zhol’ checkpoint

The State Committee for National Security of Kyrgyzstan, in conjunction with the Border Guard Service, has dismantled a network involved in the illegal import of high-value mobile phones via the Ak-Zhol checkpoint.

According to the State Committee for National Security, the mobile devices were being brought into the country in breach of customs and tax legislation.

A criminal case has been opened under the articles “Economic smuggling” and “Evasion of tax and other mandatory payments to the budget” of the Criminal Code of the Kyrgyz Republic.

The agency clarified that investigative and operational measures are currently underway. Law enforcement agencies are identifying all those involved in organising and operating the scheme, as well as establishing the circumstances surrounding the illegal import of the equipment.

The smuggling of electronics remains one of the most sensitive areas for the budget. Expensive smartphones and equipment are often imported without official declaration, which allows for the avoidance of taxes and customs duties.