President Shavkat Mirziyoyev reviewed a set of initiatives aimed at enhancing public safety and strengthening the rule of law in Uzbekistan’s neighborhoods (mahallas) on July 8. The presentation highlighted progress and remaining challenges in building safer communities across the country.

At the beginning of the year, President Mirziyoyev signed a resolution prioritizing neighborhood-level crime prevention. Under this directive, which came into force on January 3, 2025, key sectoral agencies were tasked with reducing crime rates in all mahallas by 2025. Officials were appointed to oversee areas with high levels of criminal activity.

In the six months since the resolution, authorities have introduced a region-specific roadmap system for crime prevention, expanded digital surveillance in public areas, and conducted research through law enforcement universities. Special focus has been placed on preventing crimes involving minors, women, youth, and within families. As a result, 5,200 mahallas have reported no crimes during this period.

Despite the progress, certain neighborhoods continue to struggle with high crime rates. President Mirziyoyev emphasized the need to intensify preventive efforts, including stronger patrol units, security services, and operational searches. The goal, he said, is to transform every mahalla into a “crime-free zone.”

The president also raised concerns over rising drug addiction, particularly among youth. While law enforcement has dismantled several illegal drug labs, the threat persists. To combat this, the use of surveillance cameras and artificial intelligence technologies is being encouraged to detect and eliminate drug distribution networks.

Cybercrime emerged as another critical issue, accounting for 42% of all crimes reported in the country since the start of 2025. In response, a presidential resolution signed on April 30 outlines new steps to curb crimes involving information technology. These include raising public awareness, enhancing cybersecurity in financial systems, and protecting customer interests in digital transactions.

The government also plans to modernize police training. The Academy of the Ministry of Internal Affairs will expand its enrollment, introduce new disciplines, and adopt a dual-education model to better prepare law enforcement personnel for emerging threats. President Mirziyoyev stressed the importance of aligning training programs with current challenges and boosting the morale and readiness of security forces.

The Ministry of Internal Affairs continues to work in close coordination with the prosecutor’s office and other law enforcement bodies. Officials analyze daily crime statistics, study causes, and implement targeted interventions. Support is also being offered to help reintegrate individuals with criminal records or under administrative supervision.

President Mirziyoyev called for greater coordination among law enforcement agencies, more effective early detection of violations, and a sharp reduction in crime.