Tourist police and getting help

Who the tourist police are

Since 2017, as part of measures for safe tourism in Bukhara, Samarkand, Khiva and Shahrisabz, the Interior Ministry has set up tourist-safety units attached to the regional police departments.

Officers patrol the main monuments and busy tourist streets. Some speak foreign languages and can help with directions and minor disputes.

When to turn to them

In cases of serious overcharging, theft, lost belongings or threats, approach the nearest tourist police officer or call 102 / 112.

Ask for a police report if you need one for your insurer.

If you lose your passport

Report it to the police first and get a certificate. Then contact your country's embassy or consulate in Tashkent for an emergency travel document.

You may need an exit visa to leave on the new document — the Foreign Ministry's consular service and the migration authorities can advise. A copy of your passport and your registration slips will speed things up considerably.