Guardian in Poltava Region Accused of Torturing Two Sisters, Forcing Them to Kneel on Buckwheat

Two Sisters Endure Abuse from Guardian in Poltava Region

According to Главком: A 30-year-old guardian in the Poltava region has been accused of torturing two sisters, aged 16 and 13. The abuse included forcing the girls to kneel on uncooked buckwheat for two days. The guardian also deprived them of sleep, food, and access to a toilet, and physically assaulted them with a metal shoehorn. The prolonged mistreatment resulted in bruises and abrasions on the girls' bodies and heads. This case highlights ongoing concerns about child welfare and the responsibilities of guardians in Ukraine.

Legal Proceedings and Aftermath

The incident was triggered in September 2025 when the girls ate sweets without permission. As punishment, the guardian poured buckwheat and salt into a corner and forced them to kneel on it for an extended period. The sisters managed to escape when the guardian was away from home, after which police located and interviewed them.

The guardian now faces charges under Part 1 of Article 127 of the Ukrainian Criminal Code, which pertains to torture and carries a potential prison sentence of three to six years. The children are currently safe, residing with their older brother where they are receiving necessary support and protection.

"In this situation, juvenile prosecutors are defending the two sisters from the unlawful actions of their guardian," commented Yevhen Hladiy.

Juvenile prosecutors emphasized that a guardian's duty is to provide children with proper living conditions, education, and development, while safeguarding their rights and interests. They stressed that Ukrainian law guarantees every child the right to freedom and personal integrity, and that family discipline must be based on mutual respect, excluding any humiliation of a child's dignity.

This case underscores the critical importance of protecting children's rights in Ukraine and the need for effective oversight of guardians. Juvenile prosecutors are providing legal assistance and support to the victims to ensure their safety. Such incidents provoke public concern and raise questions about the effectiveness of the child guardianship and social protection systems.