Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — In the early hours of 16 March, a violent altercation broke out at the entrance of the "12" (Twelve) bar in Tashkent between two patrons, Akmal Shukurov and his acquaintance Khurshid A. According to the Main Directorate of Internal Affairs, a verbal dispute between the men quickly escalated into a physical confrontation.

Reports indicate that during the conflict, Akmal Shukurov struck, knocked down, and grabbed a woman by the hair.

Eyewitnesses state that another man intervened, attempting to break up the fight and protect the woman, but he himself became a target of the attack.

The assailant delivered two powerful blows to his head, causing the man to lose consciousness and collapse.

The victim, identified as Boris Avakyan, was hospitalized with severe injuries. Doctors diagnosed him with a traumatic brain injury and a deep laceration on his right cheek.

A five-hour emergency surgery was performed, after which the patient was placed in a medically induced coma. However, doctors have issued a grave prognosis, warning of a high risk of fatality or permanent disability.

Medical examinations confirmed that Boris Avakyan suffered a skull fracture, with damage to both the temporal and parietal bones, an epidural hematoma in the left temporal region, an intracerebral hemorrhage in the frontal lobe, and brain swelling. His injuries have been classified as life-threatening and severe.

Law enforcement authorities have launched a search for Akmal Shukurov, who is suspected of attacking multiple individuals. The Main Directorate of Internal Affairs reported that an investigation is ongoing and that a warrant has been issued for Shukurov’s arrest in absentia.

Initially, a criminal case was opened under Article 277 of Uzbekistan’s Criminal Code ("Hooliganism"). However, charges were later expanded to include Article 104 ("Intentional Infliction of Grave Bodily Harm"). Under Part 1 of this article, the accused faces a sentence of three to five years of restricted liberty or imprisonment for the same term.

In addition to Boris Avakyan, Khurshid A. also sustained injuries as a result of Shukurov’s assault.

As for the woman whom the suspect struck, knocked to the ground, and grabbed by the hair, authorities have stated that she will undergo a forensic medical examination. Based on the results, the severity of her injuries will be determined, after which an appropriate legal decision will be made.