The State Bureau of Investigation conducted a large-scale operation at the Kyiv Investigation Isolator in connection with the tragic death of a prisoner that occurred in December 2024
As a result of investigative actions, 13 individuals suspected of involvement in criminal activities leading to the fatal incident were immediately detained. This was an important step in the investigation, which attracted significant public and human rights organization attention due to the seriousness of the circumstances. According to information obtained from the SBI press service and the Office of the Prosecutor General, investigators established that in December of last year, a so-called “supervisor” of the facility—the person who effectively controls internal order in the detention center—along with accomplices, attacked one of the prisoners. During the conflict, he sustained numerous injuries, which ultimately led to his death. Official data indicate that the suspects struck the victim multiple times and inflicted severe injuries, consciously contributing to his critical condition. However, it was found that the facility’s staff attempted to conceal the situation. They falsified documents that were supposed to reflect the prisoner’s health status and his alleged need for solitary confinement due to supposed violations of the regime. These illegal actions significantly complicated timely medical assistance, causing delays. Only a day after the injuries were inflicted, the detainee was delivered to a medical facility, but it was already too late to save him—the prisoner died at the hospital from the injuries sustained. Based on collected evidence and testimonies, the SBI carried out extensive investigative measures, resulting in the detention of 13 suspects. Among them are five prisoners and eight detention center employees: inspectors, duty officers, medical personnel, and unit managers. They are suspected of involvement in organizing and participating in criminal activities that led to the tragedy. All those detained have been officially notified of suspicion, and the investigation continues to determine the extent of their responsibility. This case has triggered wide public reaction and raised questions about the state of human rights compliance in penitentiary facilities, as well as transparency and accountability of system personnel. Law enforcement authorities are currently continuing the investigation to objectively clarify all circumstances of the tragedy and hold all those involved accountable. The SBI operation has become one of the largest in recent times within the penitentiary system and has sparked lively discussions about reform needs in this sector, as well as ensuring proper conditions for detainees and accountability among staff. It is anticipated that the investigation’s results will not only clarify all details of this high-profile case but also help prevent similar tragedies in the future. The efforts of law enforcement are aimed at restoring justice and increasing safety in correctional institutions, so that every prisoner receives proper protection and their right to life is upheld.