Mobilization officers alone lack authority to detain citizens —Ombudsman

Speaking at a session of the temporary parliamentary committee that investigates human-rights law breaches under martial law, Lubinets pointed out such detentions violate both Ukraine’s constitution and Article 5 of the European Convention on Human Rights.

“We have repeatedly stressed that [TRC] personnel have no authority to detain or hold individuals,” state news agency Ukrinform quoted Lubinets.

“Any detention at these centers absent a court order directly contradicts Ukraine’s constitution and Article 5 of the European Convention on Human Rights.”

Lubinets noted that his office has observed staff at TRCs operating without identifying insignia. He also said that in 2025 there were widespread reports of mobilization officers concealing their faces, making it impossible to identify those who might be violating citizens’ rights.

“We have documented so-called ‘detentions,’ id checks, and detentions carried out solely by [TRC] personnel without the involvement of National Police officers,” he added.

“This directly violates citizens’ rights, because current law delegates id checks exclusively to law enforcement bodies.”

Lubinets also pointed to poor conditions in which suspected draft dodgers are kept at TRCs. Inspectors found a lack of proper sleeping quarters, regular meals, and basic sanitation facilities adequate for the number of people present.