A solemn ceremony dedicated to inauguration of Colonel Makhmud Tolibovich Khamidov as new Director of the Central Asian Regional Information and Coordination Centre for Combating Illicit Trafficking of Narcotic Drugs, Psychotropic Substances and Their Precursors (CARICC) took place on 15 September 2025 in Almaty.

During the event, the Centre's staff members, representatives of CARICC member states, and liaison officers of observer countries warmly welcomed the newly appointed leader from the Republic of Uzbekistan and wished every success in his demanding role.

Special words of gratitude were addressed to former CARICC Director Lieutenant Colonel Atageldi Ovezovich Yazlyyev, who completed his mission in this high position. Participants expressed their deep gratitude for his dedication, high professionalism, and personal contribution to development and strengthening of the Centre's performance. His efforts to establish sustainable intergovernmental cooperation between competent authorities, coordinate joint operational activities, and actively promote international initiatives to combat transnational drug crime were also recognized.

It was further highlighted during the event that Lieutenant Colonel Yazlyyev has many years of experience working at CARICC, including as representative of Turkmenistan, Head of the International Operations Support and Coordination Unit, and Director of the Centre. His consistent and focused work has made a significant contribution to elevating CARICC standing in the international arena.