Farrukh Maksoudzoda, the former head of the Sughd regional health department who had been detained on suspicion of bribery, has been released after paying a 300,000 somoni fine, according to Radio Liberty’s Tajik Service, known locally as Radio Ozodi.
According to the report, Maksoudzoda spent about three months in pre-trial detention facility. A representative of the Sughd Regional Court, speaking on condition of anonymity, told the outlet on March 16 that the decision to release him had been made on March 6.
“Taking into account the time he spent in custody, the court imposed a fine of 300,000 somoni. After the damage was compensated, the punishment was limited to a fine and he was released from custody,” the source said.
In a brief phone conversation with journalists, Maksoudzoda confirmed his release, but declined to provide further details. He only noted that he agrees with the court’s decision and plans to begin working at a private clinic in the coming days.
Authorities have not yet officially commented on the release of the former regional health official.
Maksoudzoda’s detention became known in late December 2025, although officials initially declined to comment on the case. Later, Health Minister Jamoliddin Abdullozoda confirmed the arrest, stating that it could be related to the official’s “personal activities.”
The head of the Khujand City Court, Dilovar Mirzohomidzoda, said at a press conference on February 11 that criminal proceedings had been instituted against Maksoudzoda under Article 319 (1) of Tajikistan’s Criminal Code — accepting a bribe. Mirzohomidzoda did not specify the alleged amount or circumstances.
According to the court, Maksoudzoda was arrested on December 17, 2025.
Under this article, he faced a potential fine ranging from 284,700 to 711,750 somoni or up to five years in prison.
Maksoudzoda was appointed head of the Sughd regional health department in summer 2025. Before that, he served as chief physician of the regional hospital.
