The Senate of Uzbekistan decided to change the punishment for illegal exploitation of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in the country, Gazeta.uz reports.
Instead of criminal punishment including imprisonment for up to 3 years, administrative liability is now imposed. According to new amendments to the Criminal Code and the Code of Administrative Responsibility of Uzbekistan, illegal drone exploitation, including import, sale, purchase, storage or use, is an administrative offense. A fine of 10 to 20 basic calculated amounts will be imposed, and a drone will be confiscated.
However, those who will donate voluntarily a drone to the state will avoid administrative liability. Criminal punishment, including a fine of up to 50 basic monthly wages, punitive labour for up to 3 years, or restriction of freedom for up to 3 years, will be imposed for a continuing violation.
