Five killed in fire at Russian detention center where soldiers who refused to fight were beaten and tortured

A fire broke out early on Friday at a detention facility in Russia’s Sakha Republic (Yakutia), where soldiers who deserted their units are held.

Sakha’s military commissariat reported that five people were killed in the fire. Their identities are still being determined. Seven others were hospitalized with symptoms of smoke inhalation.

The cause of the fire is under investigation, the commissariat said, expressing condolences to the families and loved ones of the deceased.

In May, local Telegram channels reported that the detention facility held soldiers who refused to return to the front after being wounded. The Free Yakutia Foundation, citing activists, reported that detainees were subjected to beatings and torture, denied toilet access, and refused family visits. Activists also said that the song “I’m Russian” by Shaman was played at full volume. At the time, 28 people were reportedly being held at the facility.

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