Imprisoned Uzbek Claims Embassy Involved in Drug Trafficking Case

An official from Uzbekistan's diplomatic mission in Pakistan paid a special visit to the Central Women’s Prison in Karachi, where they met with an Uzbek citizen who is currently detained there. Based on the detainee's appeal, the diplomats are thoroughly reviewing the case details and closely monitoring the legal proceedings.

From entrepreneur to detention

According to reports, the detainee arrived in Pakistan in December 2024 with her legally married husband, who is a citizen of the Maldives, intending to pursue entrepreneurial activities. However, in January 2025, she and her husband were accused of being involved in a drug trafficking group and were subsequently arrested and placed in Karachi prison. The legal proceedings related to her case are still ongoing.

An appeal for help

In her appeal to the embassy, the detainee stated that she had trusted her foreign husband’s false promises to come to Pakistan and emphasized that she had no connection to drug trafficking. She requested assistance in securing her release.

Following her appeal, Uzbek diplomats conducted several interviews with the detainee, examined the details of the investigation, and have been monitoring the court hearings. The detainee stated that with the embassy’s active involvement, the charges against her are being reviewed more impartially.

Attorney change and provided assistance

During the meetings, consular and legal consultations were provided to defend the rights of the detainee.

It was noted that the initially appointed lawyer provided by Pakistan had taken a negligent approach to the case, which led to the termination of the agreement. The embassy then appointed another qualified attorney. The newly hired lawyer has expressed optimism regarding the detainee's chances of being released.

Furthermore, with the assistance of active community members, food supplies, winter clothing, and financial support were delivered to the detainee.

Discussions with prison management

During the visit, the embassy official also met with the prison management to discuss the possibility of repatriating the detainee to Uzbekistan to reunite with her family as soon as possible. Additionally, they discussed enhancing the conditions for the detainee, such as granting more opportunities for rest, family visits, telephone communication, meetings with her attorney, and timely access to medical services.