A new scandal has erupted in Kharkiv region related to the assault of a man by personnel of the Territorial Recruitment and Social Support Center (TCRC)
The incident is already under investigation by law enforcement authorities, indicating deeper issues in the relations between military personnel and civilians in the region, as well as raising concerns about human rights violations during military service. According to official information provided by the Kharkiv region police, on May 9, a report was received at the duty station of Kharkiv District Police Department No. 1, which caused significant resonance in the local community. The report alleged that a 49-year-old man was illegally detained at the Kharkiv TCRC premises. It also stated that his brother was injured during a conflict, during which military recruitment officers inflicted bodily harm on him. Following the conflict, the victim received medical assistance in a hospital, and subsequently officially filed a report with the police about the assault. In connection with this incident, investigators have initiated a criminal proceeding under Article 122 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine, which prescribes responsibility for intentionally inflicting moderate bodily harm. Currently, pre-trial investigation measures are ongoing to establish all circumstances of the conflict and determine the degree of responsibility of the participants. It is worth noting that the Kharkiv Regional TCRC and Social Support Center issued an official statement regarding the videos circulating in the media and social networks, which depict the beating of a former serviceman by personnel of this institution. They emphasized that internal investigations are ongoing following the dissemination of these recordings. The statement reads: “Preliminarily, the conflict began due to mutual misunderstanding. At the same time, the leadership of the Kharkiv Regional TCRC condemns the actions of the serviceman involved in the altercation, which escalated into a physical confrontation. An official inquiry has already been appointed regarding this incident, and as a result, all necessary measures will be taken, and those responsible will be held accountable in accordance with current legislation.” This incident has generated widespread societal resonance and has become a topic of discussion among local activists, civil society organizations, and human rights defenders. They emphasize the importance of an objective investigation, adherence to legality, and human rights in all situations, especially in the context of military service, which in wartime has ceased to be an entirely insular sphere with unquestioned rules. The public expresses concern that such cases may indicate systemic problems within military structures, where responsible discipline and oversight of subordinates’ actions are lacking. At the same time, law enforcement agencies have promised that all circumstances of the incident will be thoroughly examined and that the guilty parties will face fair punishment. This decision serves as an important signal to society that the rule of law and individual rights remain priorities in modern Ukraine, even in the most difficult situations. Overall, this case demonstrates that combating violations of law and abuses during military service must be a priority in state policy. It underscores the urgent need to review and strengthen internal procedures and regulations, as well as to increase accountability among servicemen and TCRC employees. Society remains hopeful that this incident will serve as a lesson and a catalyst for reforming the system and enhancing oversight of human rights protections for every citizen, regardless of status or official position.