Military ombudswoman Olga Reshetilova. Suspilne Odesa/Boris Bukhman
According to Olga Reshetylova’s Facebook account
The military ombudswoman Olha Reshetylova called for a thorough and impartial investigation into the death of a 43-year-old man liable for military service who was at the Kyiv Territorial Center for Recruitment and Social Support’s distribution point. She announced this on Facebook, noting that she is maintaining contact with the family’s lawyer and has access to all available information regarding the circumstances of the case.
The relatives of the deceased are asking questions not only about the causes of death but also about the actions of law enforcement officers, doctors, the hospital administration, and representatives of the military unit.
“All of this must be thoroughly clarified within the framework of criminal proceedings. I have already been in contact with law enforcement agencies – I very much hope for their effectiveness.”
The ombudswoman emphasized the importance of uncovering the truth about the events that led to the man’s death, and, if evidence confirms a violent nature, bringing the responsible individuals to account.
She also urged witnesses to the incident or people who possess reliable information to contact her personally, assuring confidentiality.
Background
A 43-year-old Kyiv resident, Roman Sopin, was taken to a hospital with a severe traumatic brain injury after being at the Podil Territorial Center for Recruitment and Social Support in Kyiv. Doctors performed a craniotomy, but could not save his life – the man died.
According to a relative of journalist Daryna Trunova, Sopin was mobilized, after which he called his parents, asking them to bring items for undergoing the military-medical commission. The next day the family was informed that he was in the hospital with a diagnosis of closed traumatic brain injury.
The family’s lawyer Oleksandr Protas stated that there were no grounds for detention, and center staff had no right to restrict a person’s freedom. According to him, witnesses spoke of a conflict and a demand for money in advance of Sopin’s injury.
On the other hand, Kyiv City TCС and the 71st Separate Jaeger Brigade of the Air Assault Forces of the Ukrainian Armed Forces called the beating theory false. According to official data, the man allegedly lost consciousness and fell, hitting his head on the floor – such a scenario was observed by other mobilized personnel.
The police opened a pre-trial investigation under Article 115 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine (“intentional murder”). The preliminary forensic examination confirmed that the cause of death was a closed head injury; no other injuries were found. Final conclusions are expected after histological analyses.
Minister of Internal Affairs Ihor Klymenko has taken the case under personal control. The DBR is checking the actions of center staff, and the Ukrainian Parliament has stated its readiness to involve a temporary investigative committee upon receiving a corresponding request from the family of the deceased.
Other news you may find interesting:
- Kyiv police opened a criminal case after a man died from injuries sustained at a distribution center. Investigation and forensic examination are ongoing.
- A 36-year-old man in Kharkiv was arrested for stabbing a police officer and three military recruitment center workers during mobilization efforts, facing up to life imprisonment.
- Ukrainian President Zelensky highlights the crucial steps for using Russia’s frozen assets, emphasizing political decisions, practical measures, and implementation after the London Coalition of Willing leaders’ meeting.
