Uzbekistan softens responsibility for using drones

According to the law, for persons first accused of illegal import, sale, acquisition, storage or use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), components and spare parts for them, not criminal, but administrative liability is established.

Confiscation at the expense of the state of UAVs identified as a result of an administrative offense is established, as well as exemption from liability for the voluntary surrender of UAVs and components and spare parts. Cases of administrative offenses in this category are considered by criminal courts.

The updated article 244-4 (illegal import, sale, acquisition, storage or use of UAVs) of the Criminal Code has been supplemented with such types of penalties as an alternative fine, correctional labor and restriction of freedom.

Currently, the minimum punishment is imprisonment for up to 3 years (if the UAV and components are voluntarily surrendered, the person is exempt from liability). In aggravating circumstances, the prison term can be up to 10 years.

As noted by the Customs Committee, the changes should lead to a reduction in the number of offenses related to the use of drones, as well as an increase in foreign tourists to Uzbekistan. In the past, foreign citizens have been detained more than once for importing UAVs, including due to ignorance.

During the discussion of the law in January, senators noted that the amendments were developed as part of reforms in the country aimed at democratization and liberalization of the judicial and legal system, as well as strengthening the rule of law in society.