Interrogation of victims and witnesses in proceedings concerning torture and the detention of civilians

The relevance of this article stems from the fact that, in the context of the Russian Federation’s large-scale war against Ukraine, there is a growing need for the proper documentation of evidence, specifically through the interrogation of victims and witnesses in proceedings related to torture and the unlawful detention of civilians by the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation. The aim of the article was to examine the specifics of conducting interrogations in criminal proceedings concerning crimes related to cases of torture and unlawful detention. To achieve this aim, a wide range of scientific research methods were employed, including empirical, structural and systemic approaches. The theoretical basis of this work was formed by the works of both domestic and foreign researchers, dedicated to a detailed examination of issues related to the interrogation of victims and witnesses in cases concerning the torture and unlawful detention of civilians. An in-depth analysis of these academic sources contributed to the formulation of well-reasoned conclusions. The study identified the specific features of interrogations victims and witnesses in proceedings concerning crimes committed by members of the armed forces of the Russian Federation, as well as in the development of tactical approaches to interrogation, taking into account the specific nature of this category of offences. The research has shown that when conducting interrogations in criminal proceedings related to crimes committed in the context of an armed conflict, particularly in cases involving torture and the unlawful detention of civilians, the investigator must take into account the unique nature of this category of offences. Adherence to this approach is a key prerequisite for ensuring that witnesses and victims provide complete, logically consistent and meaningful testimony. Particular attention is paid to taking into account the specificities of working with individuals who have undergone traumatic experiences, and to providing the necessary support both before and after the interview. The practical value of the study lies in the identification of effective methods for the interrogation of victims and witnesses, aimed at obtaining the most comprehensive and informative testimony possible