Unlawful actions of the Territorial Center of Recruitment (TCR) have become a major concern in Ukraine. A prominent incident involved Serhii Volovyk, a TCR soldier, who was sentenced to three years for hooliganism after assaulting a history teacher in Kharkiv. The Ground Forces report that 86% of incidents involving TCR are psychological operations, with only 14% having credible grounds. A troubling video emerged showing TCR servicemen forcefully shoving a man into a van in Kharkiv, spurring public outrage. Many crimes by TCR personnel are currently under investigation, with over 550 cases being investigated and 87 people suspected. The Verkhovna Rada recently registered a draft law to impose criminal liability on TCR officials for unlawful acts.
What are the unlawful actions of TCR causing controversy?
Numerous incidents involving the Territorial Center of Recruitment (TCR) have raised eyebrows, including beatings, forced mobilization, and fatal actions by TCR personnel. Reports indicate hooliganism, abuse of authority, and an array of criminal charges against them. Such actions culminated in significant legal scrutiny, with several officers facing imprisonment and investigations highlighting misconduct.
How prevalent are psychological operations in TCR-related incidents?
According to the Ground Forces, a staggering 86% of incidents involving the TCR are manipulations and psychological operations. These incidents often involve fake narratives or exaggerated claims, undermining the credibility of valid TCR activities. This presents a challenge as only 14% of incidents are confirmed with substantial evidence.
What legislative actions are being proposed against TCR misconduct?
The Verkhovna Rada proposes a draft law that seeks to establish criminal liability for TCR officials and military personnel involved in unlawful activities against citizens. This move aims to hold TCR members accountable for crimes such as abuse of power, illegal mobilization practices, and other reported misconduct. The draft reflects a growing demand for legal reforms and accountability within the TCR.
Are TCR acts of forced mobilization supported by legal frameworks?
While TCR is mandated to oversee conscription, reports of forceful and unlawful mobilization highlight violations of citizens' rights. However, the Supreme Court has ruled that procedural violations do not exempt individuals from military service obligations, complicating matters of forced conscriptions under TCR oversight.
What measures are being taken to investigate TCR misconduct?
The State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) is actively looking into over 550 criminal proceedings involving the TCR. Approximately 87 individuals have been suspected and nearly 50 indictments issued. These investigations target a range of illegal activities attributed to TCR personnel, aiming to curb misconduct and restore trust in the recruitment process.
