Ex-UPay CEO Detained in Uzbekistan for Alleged Illegal Gambling Involvement
Former UPay CEO Held on Charges Related to Illegal Gambling
Bekhzod Botirov, the ex-chief executive officer of payment services provider UPay, remains in detention in Uzbekistan amid accusations of enabling illegal gambling activities. Botirov was taken into custody earlier this year, with some supporters claiming his arrest is part of a broader pressure campaign targeting the Humans business group.
Details of the Allegations Against Botirov
On July 4, 2025, authorities arrested Botirov under allegations of breaching Uzbekistan’s criminal laws. The charges assert that UPay facilitated unauthorized gambling transactions, essentially supporting illegal gaming operations without the necessary licenses.
According to the National Agency for Perspective Projects (NAPP), the company allowed these unlawful gambling payments by disguising them as legitimate financial transactions, violating Article 278 of the Uzbek Criminal Code.
Botirov’s detention has recently been extended until February 2026 while investigations are still ongoing.
The Company’s Stance and Claims of Political Motivation
The Humans group, with which Botirov is affiliated, argues that his continued imprisonment is politically driven and aimed at exerting undue pressure on the company and its leadership. They emphasize that Botirov’s defense has provided evidence challenging the accusations, and no conclusive proof has been established during the investigations.
Furthermore, Humans highlights that other licensed payment providers apparently process similar online gambling transactions without facing legal actions.
Nevertheless, Uzbek authorities justify the extended custody by citing concerns that Botirov might attempt to interfere with the evidence. Investigations remain active not only regarding UPay but also other entities founded by Botirov.
Current Status of UPay and Ongoing Legal Measures
Meanwhile, the Central Bank of Uzbekistan has suspended UPay’s operations. In response, Humans has filed actions to challenge the suspension and is advocating for Botirov’s release, arguing that there is insufficient evidence to justify his continued detention.
