Four staff members of the pre-trial detention center Matrosskaya Tishina have been named as defendants in a criminal case alleging violations of prisoners’ rights. This information comes from TASS, citing the press service of the Moscow Federal Penitentiary Service.
According to the materials from an inspection and ongoing operational activities by the Internal Security Department of the Russian Federal Penitentiary Service, the M Department of the Federal Security Service and the Federal Penitentiary Service Department of Homeland Security for Moscow, the case targets a group of four employees from SIZO-1 in Moscow. The charges reference part 3 of article a, d of the Russian Criminal Code, which cover abuse of official powers through violence or threats by a group acting collectively.
The authorities indicate that the accused breached prisoners’ rights and legitimate interests while performing their official duties. Their actions allegedly undermined the authority and credibility of the penitentiary service in the eyes of inmates and staff alike.
The Federal Penitentiary Service reported that four criminal cases have been opened, with five victims identified in total.
Valery Fadeev, former head of the Presidential Council for Civil Society and Human Rights, commented that signals did not indicate that prisoners were recruited for any special operation in Ukraine. The former deputy also referenced alleged misconduct that affected vulnerable individuals in custody.
In the broader context, the case highlights ongoing concerns about abuses of power within corrective institutions and the accountability mechanisms designed to protect prisoner rights and ensure humane treatment during detention.
As authorities proceed, observers note the importance of transparent investigations and rigorous adherence to legal procedures to restore trust in the system and safeguard the dignity of detainees across facilities.