A resident of the Tajik northern city of Konibodom has been detained on suspicion of organizing illegal labor migration to Ukraine between 2018 and 2022.  The suspect allegedly confiscated workers' documents and failed to pay their wages, according to report of the Interior Ministry’s official website.

“"A 36-year-old resident of the city of Kanibodom was detained during operational-search measures by police officers on suspicion of organizing illegal labor migration.  The suspect deceived several individuals by promising them jobs as salespeople and other specialists but did not pay their wages, leading to significant financial losses," the Interior Ministry reported.

One victim, a 33-year-old man from Kanibodom, worked as a salesperson and suffered a loss of 900,000 Russian rubles.

Another victim, a 32-year-old man from the same city, incurred damages amounting to 4.8 million rubles.  Moreover, the suspect allegedly claimed the victim owed him an additional US$15,000 and continued to demand repayment.

Other workers collectively suffered losses exceeding 2.04 million rubles due to unpaid wages.

Criminal proceedings have been instituted against the suspect under Article 335 (2) of Tajikistan’s Penal Code – organization of illegal migration.  This article stipulates a fine ranging from 500 to 1,000 calculating indicators (1 calculating indicator is now equal to 75.00 somonis) or correctional labor for a period of one to two years.

A preliminary investigation is under way.