The criminal trial of blogger Sanjar Karimov, known on social media as Real Sanjik, has commenced at the Mirzo-Ulugbek District Court for Criminal Cases. He faces charges under Articles 112 (Threat of Murder), 168 (Fraud), and 273 (Illegal Drug Trafficking). Karimov and his lawyers requested closed-door hearings, but the judge denied this, allowing media representatives to take photographs and audio recordings (video recording is prohibited).

At the first hearing, Karimov declared his innocence, stating, "I do not admit guilt for any of the charges brought against me." The victim, Feruza Rakhmatullayeva – mother of Shakhzod Rismatov (the "runaway groom") previously sentenced to 9 years for fraud – then testified. According to her, Karimov called her, demanding the return of money her son had borrowed from him against an apartment collateral, giving her a week. When she failed to comply, threats ensued: "I will make you carry your son's coffin, disgrace him, make a movie."

Rakhmatullayeva also alleged misconduct during the investigation, claiming she was confused for 8 hours, had her phone confiscated, and was pressured to give specific statements. She said, "Sanjar Karimov bought off the investigators and got my son sentenced to 9 years." The next hearing is scheduled for April 13, where another victim, Shakhlo Olimbayeva, will be questioned. It is recalled that Karimov's criminal case is linked to the "runaway groom" and deceived "bride" case, in which Rismatov was found guilty.

Source: kun.uz