64 facts of sexual violence by russian forces recorded in Kherson region
A mobile group of law enforcement officers and experts recorded 64 cases of sexual violence in the Kherson region by the russian invaders during the occupation of the right bank of the region. This is more than in other regions of Ukraine that were liberated.
Rubryka reports, referring to the press service of the Prosecutor General's Office.
Law enforcement officers involved the specialized services to support the mental health of witnesses and victims. Global Rights Compliance experts also accompanied the mobile group.
It is an organization specializing in international humanitarian law, criminal law, and the protection of human rights in conflict zones worldwide.
"For the most part, the victims are open. Their motivation in bringing information about torture to the general public is noticeable.
However, they also have a protective reaction by not accepting the traumatic experience and ignoring the need to receive long-term psychological help," said the Kyiv Regional Center for Social and Psychological Assistance.
The department noted that among the most common facts are forced nudity, rape, and electric torture of the genitals.
The police said that they received information, in particular, during communication with the population, heads of communities, and local medical personnel. The mobile group includes women and psychologists who are supposed to help the victims live through traumatic experiences.
Since the beginning of the full-scale war, prosecutors have recorded 154 cases of war-related sexual violence. Six russian servicemen were suspected, two indictments have already been sent to the court, and one person has been convicted.
What to do if you've been sexually assaulted during wartime?
- If possible, find a safer place.
- Apply for medical assistance and to record physical injuries and health conditions—to health care facilities at number 103.
It is necessary to report the crime to the authorities:
- National Police: 102;
- prosecutor's office: data by region;
- military administration at the place of commission of the crime or the place of stay.
Document the crime as much as possible. If possible, conduct photo/video recording, and find possible witnesses. If necessary, seek psychological and legal support.
What to do if you're a victim of sexual violence in occupied territories?
Then report the crime to the Prosecutor General's Office at:
- hotline for crimes committed in armed conflict: 096 755 0240 (Viber, WhatsApp, Telegram, Signal);
- email [email protected]. You must indicate your full name and electronic communication means in the letter.
Where to get psychological and legal support?
Contact center for providing free legal assistance: 0 800 213 103 or website www.legalaid.gov.ua.
Government contact center 1547 or website www.1547.ukc.gov.ua.
National hotline for preventing domestic violence, human trafficking, and gender discrimination — 116 123 or www.facebook/com.lastrada.ukraine.
