In Kyiv region, more than 30 people were held in slavery under the guise of a rehabilitation center

Police in the Kyiv region have uncovered a criminal group that held more than 30 people in slavery under the guise of a rehabilitation center.

This was reported by the press service of the National Police of Ukraine.

According to the investigation, three Ukrainian nationals searched for vulnerable individuals at railway stations, offering them treatment for alcohol and drug addiction, as well as accommodation and food at a “rehabilitation center.”

In reality, victims were taken to a rented house near Kyiv, where their mobile phones and documents were confiscated. They were kept in unsanitary conditions, forbidden from leaving the premises, and forced to work for free.

Men were made to work on construction sites for 11 hours a day, while women were tasked with maintaining the house and preparing meals for the center’s operators using expired food products.

Police stated that this scheme generated approximately 400,000 UAH (€8,888) per month.

Victims who attempted to escape were subjected to physical and psychological abuse.

Authorities managed to rescue 31 people during the operation. Three suspects have been arrested.