SBU Detains Former Guard of Russian Prison in Kherson

What Happened

On April 5, 2026, the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) announced the arrest of a Kherson resident who cooperated with Russian military personnel following the city's occupation. This individual had the role of an 'inspector' at a facility reportedly used as a prison during the occupation.

Key Details

The SBU’s investigation revealed that the arrested man was recruited into a repressive Russian entity, where he received weapons, a Russian uniform, and an official identification card. This allowed him to cross checkpoints without hindrance.

The suspect patrolled the prison's perimeter, where detainees, including resistance members, were held. He also monitored the facility from a watchtower, overseeing both prison buildings and the surrounding area.

After Kherson’s liberation, he attempted to conceal his collaboration by withdrawing from public view. In April 2026, he sought to join a local law enforcement agency, hoping this would mask his past associations with the Russian-appointed administration.

He was detained while submitting his application to the state institution. The man now faces charges under Article 111-1, Part 7, of the Ukrainian Criminal Code for collaboration with the enemy.

Authorities are currently piecing together all aspects of his criminal activities.

Why It Matters

The arrest highlights ongoing efforts by Ukrainian authorities to hold accountable individuals who collaborated with occupying forces during the conflict. This action sends a message about the consequences of working with enemy forces amidst the ongoing hostilities.

Background

The SBU previously detained another local resident in Kherson who joined a Russian prison management system in June 2022, serving as a junior inspector in a prison set up in a commandeered correctional facility. He was charged with overseeing detention areas where resistance participants were taken. These arrests reflect the transitional justice efforts in post-occupation Ukraine.