A Russian man convicted of murder and cannibalism has returned to his hometown of Volgograd after fighting in the Ukraine war, sparking concern across the country.
The Cannibal of Volgograd
Dmitri Malyshev, sentenced to 25 years for a gruesome 2013 murder, was pardoned by President Vladimir Putin in exchange for his service in Ukraine. Local media reported Malyshev’s return on September 22.
Malyshev, who earned the moniker “The Cannibal of Volgograd,” shocked Russia a decade ago when he murdered a man from Tajikistan, removed his heart, and cooked it. His horrific crime was captured on video, leading to a lengthy prison sentence, according to Ziare.
However, following the outbreak of the Ukraine war, Malyshev, along with other convicts, was recruited by Russian forces to fight on the frontlines in exchange for a pardon.
Plans to Return to Battlefield
Local officials confirmed that Malyshev is recovering from injuries sustained in the conflict, but he plans to return to the battlefield after receiving medical treatment. His return highlights a growing issue in Russia, as numerous prisoners, including dangerous criminals, have been recruited for the war and are returning home.
In recent months, concerns have escalated following reports of ex-convict soldiers committing violent crimes after returning from the war.
One high-profile case involved a former inmate who murdered a 12-year-old girl in Kemerovo. Russian lawmakers, including Nina Ostanina, have called for stricter monitoring and reintegration programs to protect the public from returning veterans who may pose a threat.
Independent media outlets report that veterans recruited from Russian prisons have been responsible for the deaths of around 50 people, mostly family members or neighbors.
