A 68-year-old resident of the Vose district in Khatlon province, Rajabali Tabarov, has been detained on suspicion of organizing illegal gambling, according to the Interior Ministry’s website.  

Local police have revealed an illegal gambling room at Tabarov’s home.  He has reportedly involved several local young men – Jovidon Tabarov, Sayjalol Murodov, Karomatullo Nematullo and Rustam Davlatov -- in his illegal business.  

Banknotes in denominations of 100, 20, 10, 5 and 3 somonis as well as dice were found in his home, the Interior Ministry’s website says.

Criminal proceedings have been instituted against Rajabali Tabarov under the provisions of Article 240 of Tajikistan’s Penal Code – organization or maintenance of casino, gambling tables and slot machines with cash winnings; an investigation is under way.  

If convicted, Rajabali Tabarov could face up to eight years in prison with confiscation of property.