Uzbek diplomats have lodged formal complaints with Turkish authorities regarding alleged rude treatment of Uzbek citizens at Istanbul International Airport. This was reported by the consulate general of Uzbekistan in Istanbul.
According to the diplomats, they have received numerous complaints from compatriots about "rude treatment by police officers" at the Istanbul airport. "In this regard, all complaints and objections raised by our citizens have been conveyed to the Turkish side through diplomatic channels, and negotiations with official organizations are currently underway," the consulate general's Telegram channel stated.
The consulate general revealed that Turkish authorities have tightened control measures, primarily targeting foreign nationals aged 20-35 at Istanbul airport. Diplomats noted that there have been instances where individuals whose behavior aroused suspicion among immigration officers were subjected to questioning and had their personal cell phones checked.
Those suspected of involvement in terrorism, human trafficking, and other criminal activities, as well as individuals attempting to transport prohibited goods, are declared undesirable passengers and denied entry into Turkey. They are subsequently deported without being admitted into the country. The consulate general noted that out of 163 Uzbek citizens denied entry to Turkey in January and February of this year, 54 had previously committed offenses in the country, resulting in their entry ban.
In light of these developments, Uzbek diplomats have urged their fellow citizens to respect and observe local laws. Additionally, compatriots previously deported for violating Turkish laws have been advised to check with the Turkish diplomatic missions in Tashkent and Samarkand to determine if they are subject to an entry ban before attempting to travel to the country.
GSV "Russia - Islamic World"
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Based on materials from TASS