Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan: Heightened security likely on the border between Jalal-Abad and Namangan after shooting incident May 5

Event

Security services in Kyrgyzstan state that Uzbek border guards shot and killed three Kyrgyz citizens at the border between the two countries in the Ala-Buka area of Kyrgyzstan's Jalal-Abad Region May 5. The details surrounding the incident are currently unclear but it is possibly related to longstanding border disputes in the region; Uzbek officials have not commented on the incident.

Authorities from both countries are likely to increase security measures along the border following the incident, possibly resulting in transport disruptions in the surrounding area. Further incidents are possible in the coming days.

Advice

Exercise heightened vigilance if operating near the border area. Allow additional time for cross-border travel and for travel in areas near the shared border; carry relevant identification documents and remain polite and nonconfrontational if questioned by security forces. Leave the area immediately at the first sign of confrontation.