Released Wagner fighter claims compensation for custody conditions in Volgograd colony

An amnestied fighter from the Wagner PMC (Private Military Company) is seeking compensation through the court for the custody conditions at the SIZO (pre-trial prison) and the Volgograd colony, where he had served his term for a murder. His advocate has stated that prisoners' rights to acceptable custody conditions are regularly violated in Volgograd colonies; and court rulings fail to remedy the situation.

On May 3, the Tsentralny District Court of Volgograd considered the lawsuit of Mikhail Zagrebailov, a fighter of the Wagner PMC.

According to Alexander Polonsky, an advocate, the local prosecutor's office has been trying for decades to correct the situation in local jails; however, contrary to court rulings, "nothing is being eliminated." In particular, there is no hot water in the washbasins in colonies; there is no ventilation in the cells; because of this, mould abounds on the walls and ceilings; and the cells are either too hot or too cold. The colony staff has claimed that "prisoners should suffer," although the court had punished them only with deprivation of freedom, the advocate has stated.

"Windows are old; there are drafts, and prisoners get sick ... No working conditions are observed, and no personal protective means are provided," Mr Polonsky has added.