According to the Bishkek Mayor's Office, the raids in the Sverdlovsk district were carried out to monitor compliance with the Law of the Kyrgyz Republic No. 121 "On Protection from Tobacco Smoke." The inspections were led by the First Deputy Head of the district with the participation of officers from the district internal affairs department and representatives of the state sanitary and epidemiological surveillance for the city of Bishkek.

"Compliance with legislative requirements in the field of protection from tobacco smoke is mandatory for every citizen and business entity."
Bishkek Mayor's Office

Where inspections took place and what was identified

Inspectors visited various locations, including cafes, restaurants, shopping centers, parks, and public transport stops. During the raids, instances of using tobacco products, hookahs, and electronic cigarettes (vapes) were recorded in places where it is prohibited by law.

Additionally, specialists identified violations of tobacco product sales regulations. Following the inspections, protocols were drawn up against individuals and legal entities that violated the requirements in accordance with the Code of Offenses of the Kyrgyz Republic, and fines were imposed.

Measures for businesses

Managers of catering establishments and retail outlets were issued strict warnings. They were instructed on the necessity of dismantling hookah equipment and mandatory compliance with the law. The capital's Mayor's Office emphasized that such raids will be conducted on a regular basis.