A 49-year-old resident of Dushanbe is suspected of smuggling of precious stones.

According to the Interior Ministry’s website, the 49-year-old resident of Dushanbe was detained on suspicion of smuggling of precious stones on October 10.

123 pieces of emerald and 20 pieces of sapphire were confiscated from him during the detention.

Besides, police officers found 105 pieces of ruby while searching his home.

A total cost of the confiscated gemstones is reportedly 84,010 somoni (TJS).  Criminal proceedings have been instituted against the detained gemstone smuggler and  an investigation is under way.