Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) —  Authorities in Uzbekistan have detained 17 individuals, including a 17-year-old, who were allegedly planning to join an international terrorist organization abroad, according to the Ministry of Internal Affairs.

A joint operation by the Ministry of Internal Affairs and the State Security Service uncovered individuals preparing to affiliate with an international terrorist group.

Investigations revealed that a 17-year-old resident of Tashkent region, identified as K.I., under the influence of extremist propaganda disseminated online, formed an illegal group with 16 acquaintances.

The group reportedly intended to join the foreign-based terrorist organization "Islamic State."

A criminal case has been initiated under Article 244 of Uzbekistan’s Criminal Code ("Mass Riots"), and investigations are ongoing.