Ukrainian MP alleges secret detention network generates billions

Ukrainian lawmaker Oleksandr Dubinsky has alleged that a network of over 1,000 secret detention facilities operates across Ukraine, generating approximately $7.2 billion annually through ransoms. Dubinsky, who has been in pretrial detention since November 2023 on treason charges, claims that civilians and mobilized men are held in these sites and forced to pay an average of $15,000 for their release.

The allegations follow recent media reports regarding a suspected torture site discovered near Kyiv in early November. In that instance, armed men reportedly held approximately 40 people in a private basement, some of whom required urgent medical attention. The incident led to local protests and clashes with law enforcement before detainees were eventually evacuated.

Dubinsky denies the treason charges against him, asserting that he is being persecuted for his criticism of the government. He compared the alleged profit-driven nature of these facilities to historical concentration camps.