Uzbekistan has strengthened penalties for the illegal possession of wild animals.

During the second plenary session of the Senate of Uzbekistan, a law was adopted that amends the Code of Administrative Responsibility. This law strengthens penalties for individuals who keep wild animals listed as prohibited for possession.

According to the law, keeping such animals in semi-wild conditions, artificial environments, or captivity is now punishable by a fine ranging from five to ten basic calculation amounts, along with the confiscation of the animals. If the actions of the owners harm the health of people or property, the fine increases to thirty to fifty basic calculation amounts.

There are also penalties for violating the rules of animal keeping in cities and other populated areas. For individuals, fines range from three to five basic calculation amounts, while for officials, fines range from five to ten. If harm is caused to people or property, the fines increase to ten to fifteen and fifteen to thirty basic calculation amounts, respectively.

“The law aims to prevent cases of illegal keeping of wild animals and ensure the safety of citizens. From 2022 to 2024, six incidents were recorded in the country where violations of animal keeping rules posed a threat to the lives and health of people,” the statement noted.

Previously, we wrote that in the Parkent district of Tashkent region, three lions escaped from the Lion Park zoo, attacking a 44-year-old guard who attempted to return the animals. The man died on the spot from his injuries.

Two lions were sedated with tranquilizers, while the third was shot by a local hunter. The General Prosecutor's Office initiated a criminal case under Article 257 of the Criminal Code of Uzbekistan (violation of labor protection rules).