President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev chaired a high-level meeting focused on enhancing public safety in mahallas (neighborhood communities) and reinforcing the rule of law at the local level. The key theme of the session was the introduction of proactive crime prevention strategies through modern technology and targeted social support.
According to the Presidential Press Service, Uzbekistan will implement a national system of video surveillance and artificial intelligence tools to detect offenses, particularly in the fight against illegal drug trafficking.
Security Starts at the Doorstep
Emphasizing a community-based approach, President Mirziyoyev stated that "security must begin at the doorstep, not in an office." The new policy envisions each mahalla as a crime-free zone. To achieve this, the government has developed a set of localized "roadmaps" covering all regions, districts, and neighborhoods.
These roadmaps focus on prevention through digital monitoring, educational outreach, improved social services, and reforms in law enforcement staffing. A major emphasis was placed on maintaining a constant presence of police inspectors and social workers at the local level.
Successes and Remaining Challenges
An official report highlighted that in the first half of 2025, 5,200 mahallas nationwide recorded zero crimes—an outcome attributed to strong coordination between police, security services, and community outreach workers.
Nonetheless, certain areas continue to experience high crime rates. In response, the president called for increased deployment of criminal investigation officers and patrol units in these districts.
Focus on Youth, Drug Offenses, and Cybercrime
Special attention was given to preventing offenses among youth, women, and minors, as well as combating drug trafficking. The use of digital technologies - including surveillance systems and AI algorithms - will be central to these efforts.
The president also addressed the sharp rise in cybercrime, which now accounts for 42% of all reported offenses in 2025. He stressed the need to strengthen cybersecurity infrastructure, protect online financial transactions, and promote legal literacy in the digital space.
This push builds on the presidential decree of April 30, which outlines a systemic approach to combating IT-related crimes.
In closing, President Mirziyoyev urged law enforcement agencies to move away from paper-based reporting and focus on real engagement - “working with people, on the ground, in the streets, and in homes” - so that every citizen feels the law is working for them, not against them.
CentralasianLIGHT.org
July 9, 2025