Ecologists in Uzbekistan are calling for an end to the promotion of dog fighting on social media.

According to a report from the Ecolog.uz portal, an individual operating an Instagram account under the nickname “rav_shan_969” is suspected of organizing and promoting dog fights by posting photos and videos of them on social media. It has been reported that even dogs that did not display aggression were coerced into participating in these fights.

The public is urging the relevant authorities to assess the actions of this individual legally.

In Uzbekistan, dog fighting is prohibited by law. The organization and conduct of such events fall under part 1 of article 278 of the Criminal Code of Uzbekistan (“Organization and conduct of gambling and other risk-based games”), as well as article 202−1 (“Cruel treatment of animals”).

According to article 202−1 of the Criminal Code of Uzbekistan, cruel treatment of animals resulting in their death or injury is punishable by a fine ranging from 25 to 50 basic calculated amounts (BCA), mandatory community service of up to 240 hours, corrective labor for up to 1 year, restriction of freedom for up to 6 months, or imprisonment for the same duration.

Environmentalists and human rights defenders are calling for immediate intervention and accountability for those responsible.