The Uzbekistan Consulate in Turkey has warned its citizens about increased security checks and restrictions at entry and exit points, especially at Istanbul airport. The measures primarily target foreigners aged 20-35, with additional scrutiny on individuals exhibiting suspicious behavior and checks on their personal mobile phones.
Those suspected of terrorism, human trafficking, smuggling illegal goods, or with previous law violations in Turkey are considered "undesirable passengers" and are sent back to their country without entry into Turkish territory. In January-February alone, 163 Uzbek citizens were denied entry to Turkey, with 54 having prior violations during previous visits resulting in entry bans.
Complaints from Uzbek citizens regarding mistreatment by police at Istanbul airport have been raised and addressed through diplomatic channels with ongoing discussions with relevant authorities. The Consulate urges its citizens to respect local laws, abide by them fully, and advises those previously deported to check for entry bans at Turkish diplomatic missions in Tashkent and Samarkand.
Several women accused of human trafficking, including Munisakhon Alizhonova, Nilufar Mirkhanova (known as "Madam Claude"), Dilnoza Umarova, and Mavludakhon Ulmasova, have been deported from Turkey this year. Additionally, Fahriddin Shakarboev (58) and Humoyunbek Mardonov (31), wanted for financial crimes, have been extradited from Turkey.
