Bekhzod Botirov, who formerly led the payments provider UPay, remains in custody in Uzbekistan amid ongoing allegations of facilitating illegal gambling transactions. This arrest, which took place on July 4, 2025, has sparked significant debate as it ties into broader issues within the gambling and payments industry in the region.
The accusations against Botirov are serious, implicating him in violations of Uzbekistan’s Criminal Code, specifically Article 278. Authorities allege that UPay enabled unlicensed gaming operations by processing transactions that were purportedly dressed up as legitimate business dealings. These charges have extended Botirov’s detention until February 2026, reflecting the complexity and gravity of the ongoing investigation.
The National Agency for Perspective Projects (NAPP) has been at the forefront of these allegations, insisting that the payments facilitated by UPay were a conduit for illegal activities disguised under the guise of legitimate transactions. This points to a significant challenge in the payments sector, where the thin line between legal and illegal operations is often blurred by sophisticated financial maneuvers.
However, Botirov’s supporters, particularly the Humans group, argue that the charges are not rooted in solid evidence. They have consistently described the detention as a politically charged campaign, not just against Botirov but against the Humans company group at large. According to Humans Mobile, efforts have been made to present documentation that contradicts the accusations, yet these have seemingly been overlooked in the judicial process.
The Humans group also raises a critical point regarding the selective enforcement of gambling laws. They argue that several other licensed payment providers continue to facilitate online gambling operations without facing similar legal scrutiny. This suggests a disparity in how regulations are applied, raising questions about the underlying motivations for Botirov’s arrest and the potential for misuse of regulatory frameworks.
From the government’s perspective, the rationale for keeping Botirov detained centers around concerns that he might interfere with the ongoing investigation or tamper with evidence. This is a common justification in legal proceedings, especially in cases involving complex financial transactions and allegations of corporate malfeasance.
As the investigation progresses, the Central Bank of Uzbekistan has suspended UPay’s operations, which marks a significant blow to the company. In response, Humans has initiated legal proceedings to overturn this suspension, arguing that it lacks a substantive evidential basis. They have also called for Botirov’s release, contending that his ongoing detention is unjustified in the absence of definitive proof.
This situation unfolds amidst a broader context of increasing regulatory scrutiny over financial transactions related to gambling worldwide. Many countries are tightening regulations to curb illegal gambling activities, with a strong focus on the role of payment providers. The case of UPay in Uzbekistan is emblematic of these global trends, reflecting both the challenges and the contentious nature of regulating an industry that operates at the intersection of finance and leisure.
Critics of the Uzbek government’s approach argue that such stringent measures might stifle business innovation and deter foreign investment, particularly in the burgeoning fintech sector. They suggest that a balanced approach, which encourages compliance through incentives rather than punitive measures, might foster a healthier business environment.
On the other hand, proponents of strict regulation maintain that robust enforcement is necessary to safeguard the integrity of financial systems and protect consumers from unlicensed operations that can have serious socio-economic impacts. They argue that any leniency might embolden illegal operators, ultimately undermining the rule of law.
As this case continues to unfold, it highlights the ongoing tension between innovation in the payments industry and the need for effective regulatory oversight. The outcome will likely have significant implications not only for UPay and the Humans group but also for the future of financial regulation in Uzbekistan and potentially across the region.
In conclusion, the detention of Bekhzod Botirov and the accompanying allegations against UPay serve as a reminder of the intricate challenges at the intersection of finance and regulation. As the legal proceedings continue, stakeholders across the board are watching closely, aware that the decisions made in this case could set important precedents for the management and oversight of financial operations related to gambling in Uzbekistan and beyond.
Garry Sputnim is a seasoned journalist and storyteller with over a decade of experience in the trenches of global news. With a keen eye for uncovering stories that resonate, Alex has reported from over 30 countries, bringing light to untold narratives and the human faces behind the headlines. Specializing in investigative journalism, Garry has a knack for technology and social justice issues, weaving compelling narratives that bridge tech and humanity. Outside the newsroom, Garry is an avid rock climber and podcast host, exploring stories of resilience and innovation.
