A suspect has been detained in the Batken Region on suspicion of extorting money in connection with social contracts

In the Batken Region, evidence has come to light of money being extorted from families applying for social contracts. The suspect has been detained and a criminal case has been opened.

The violations were uncovered by staff at the Ministry’s Batken Inter-District Directorate during a routine monitoring of the social contract programme. According to the department, unknown individuals, under the pretext of assisting with the processing of state support, demanded money from aid recipients.

Following the Ministry’s referral to law enforcement agencies, operational and investigative measures were carried out, resulting in the suspect’s arrest.

The Ministry reiterated that social contracts are processed exclusively through its regional offices. Funds are transferred directly to recipients’ bank accounts without intermediaries, commissions or additional charges.

The Ministry urged citizens to report to law enforcement agencies or the Ministry’s regional offices any instances of money being demanded in exchange for assistance in obtaining social contracts.