In the Lviv region, a businessman kept a classmate in slavery for 23 years.

In the city of Gorodok, law enforcement officials have issued a notice of suspicion to a businessman who, according to investigators, held his classmate in forced labor for over two decades.

The Office of the Prosecutor General reported this.

According to investigators, back in 2002, a woman approached the businessman asking for help with her brother’s job and housing. The husband agreed and offered to help with housework, pay, and accommodation.

Initially, the victim was able to move freely and see his relatives. However, these opportunities were later restricted: for his work, he received only food, cigarettes, and a place to stay.

The man performed heavy labor—helping with construction, chopping wood, mowing grass, and cultivating the land. During the warmer months, he was transported to another site, where he guarded the territory and tended to the animals.

Living conditions were inadequate. In Gorodok, he lived in a utility building with no running water or kitchen, a concrete floor, and poor heating. At another location, he lived in a metal container with no windows, electricity, water, or heat.

According to the investigation, the businessman confiscated the man’s documents, ignored his health complaints, and used physical and psychological violence, including beating him with a stick and humiliating him.

The victim was only dismissed in September 2025. He is now 71 years old. Doctors have documented chronic illnesses, hand injuries, and missing teeth, as well as a significant deterioration in his psycho-emotional state. He is currently in a geriatric nursing home.

The businessman is charged with human trafficking under Part 2 of Article 149 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine. He faces 5 to 12 years in prison.

Also follow “Pryamy” on Facebook , X , Telegram and Instagram.