Uzbekistan Gas Scandal Results In Executive Arrest

Authorities in Uzbekistan have arrested a senior executive at a state-owned natural gas distribution network operator over his involvement in alleged unauthorized deliveries to a factory while the rest of the population endured chronic shortages. Sardar Umurzakov, the head of the presidential administration, who has aimed strong rhetoric at the perceived shortcomings of regional leaders and other officials since his appointment in July, said on December 11 that more executives could face the same treatment.  The office of the Prosecutor General…