A Nigerian citizen fighting alongside Russian forces in Ukraine has been captured by the Freedom of Russia Legion—a group of Russian fighters allied with Ukraine.
The individual, 29-year-old Kehinde Oluwagbemileke, was reportedly apprehended in Ukraine’s Zaporizhzhia region, according to the “I Want to Live” project, an initiative that helps Russian and foreign soldiers surrender.
According to the project, Kehinde had resided in Russia for four years and had previously been arrested on drug charges.
To avoid imprisonment under Article 228 of the Russian Criminal Code, he allegedly agreed to join Russia’s so-called “special military operation” in Ukraine in exchange for a reduced sentence.
“Kehinde is one of thousands of foreign mercenaries recruited by the Russian Defense Ministry to fight in Ukraine,” the organization noted. He is said to have fought for five months before his capture.
The group added that many foreign recruits are deceived about the dangers and conditions of the war, describing them as “disposable manpower.”
It called on governments to take steps to prevent the recruitment of their citizens by the Russian military.
Ukraine’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs also cautioned foreign nationals against joining Russian forces.
A ministry representative urged individuals to stay away from Russia’s occupation army and instead reach out to the “I Want to Live” project if they find themselves under pressure to enlist.
Kehinde’s capture adds to a growing list of foreign fighters detained on the battlefield while serving under Russia.
Earlier this year, two Chinese nationals were also taken prisoner by Ukrainian forces and recounted similar stories of coercion and disillusionment.
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