The Diplomat: Chechen connection complicates Allamjonov investigation in Uzbekistan

On December 27, Uzbekistan’s Prosecutor General’s Office confirmed the involvement of the two individuals, stating they were wanted in connection with “illegal entry into the Republic of Uzbekistan, failure to report a crime, and illegal trafficking of firearms.”

As The Diplomat notes, the Allamjonov case continues to evolve, revealing intricate layers with each update. Following the attack, two individuals, Shokhrukh Ahmedov and Ismoil Jahongirov, appeared in a video circulated on social media claiming responsibility. Both names had earlier been linked to a 2021 assassination attempt on critics of Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov in Türkiye.

By November 2024, Uzbekistan’s Prosecutor General’s Office had identified seven individuals in connection to the case. Five suspects were detained shortly after the attack, while two others — referred to as “K.S.” and Javlon Yunusov — were placed on wanted lists. Yunusov, who was detained in South Korea, was extradited to Uzbekistan, and investigative measures were conducted with “K.S.” in Kazakhstan.

 Kadyrov's statement and reactions

The involvement of Chechen individuals brought Ramzan Kadyrov, the head of Russia's Chechen Republic, into the spotlight. On December 26, Kadyrov addressed the matter on Telegram, denying allegations of his connection to the case and accusing Western media of fabricating ties.

In his statement, Kadyrov wrote, “If I had prepared [the assassination], I would have completed the matter that very day.” He also issued a stern warning to Allamjonov and Li, stating, “Do not play the role of victims. Whatever you are planning, it is better to stop in time, or you will have to answer for all the intrigues… according to our traditions.”

Kadyrov's remarks sparked a strong response within Uzbekistan. Former MP Rasul Kusherbaev labeled Kadyrov’s comments as “terrorism,” urging the Uzbek government to respond decisively. Current MP Odiljon Tojiyev suggested Kadyrov should assist in apprehending Rasayev and Temirkhanov if he considers himself a friend of Uzbekistan.