Maria Kovalchuk, found with broken spine on side of road in Dubai was ‘tortured by Russians’

Maria Kovalchuk, a 20-year-old Ukrainian model and OnlyFans creator was last seen in Dubai after telling friends she had been invited to a hotel party. She vanished on March 9, 2025, sparking immediate concern among her family and friends. When she missed her scheduled flight to Thailand two days later. For over a week, no one could reach her, and her disappearance quickly became a high-profile mystery in both Ukrainian and international media.

Found in Critical Condition

After ten days missing, Maria Kovalchuk was discovered on the side of a Dubai road in a horrific state. She had suffered a broken spine and multiple broken limbs and was unable to speak due to the extent of her injuries. Emergency responders rushed her to the hospital, where she underwent several life-saving surgeries. She remained in a coma for days, and her family flew in from Norway to be by her side.

Conflicting Theories and Police Statements

Dubai police issued a statement claiming Maria Kovalchuk’s injuries resulted from a fall at a restricted construction site. Suggesting she entered the area alone and fell from a height. Their investigation concluded that this was an accident, not a crime. However, her family and sources close to the case have firmly rejected this version of events. Insisting that Maria was the victim of a violent crime.

Her family believes she was lured under false pretences, possibly by individuals posing as modelling agents. Maria had told her mother she was staying with two men who claimed to represent the modelling business. After the hotel event, she stopped communicating, and her family heard nothing more until she was found injured.

Allegations of Abuse and Human Trafficking

Reports from Russian and Ukrainian media, as well as statements from those close to Maria. Suggests she may have been the target of a human trafficking scheme. Theories have emerged that she was forced into sexual exploitation after being duped into attending what is known as a “Porta Potty” party. These events are notorious in some circles. Allegedly involve influencers being paid large sums to endure degrading, abusive acts for the pleasure of wealthy men.

A source close to Maria Kovalchuk has alleged that Russian citizens operating in the United Arab Emirates were responsible for her abuse and torture, not UAE nationals. This claim has intensified calls for a thorough investigation, especially as another model reportedly escaped from a similar party. Describing it as a trap where women were forced to sign contracts and then subjected to rape, beatings, and mistreatment.

Ongoing Investigations and International Attention

The case has prompted Ukrainian police to open a human trafficking investigation, with a pre-trial inquiry underway in Maria’s home region of Lviv. No suspects have been officially named, and the Dubai police continue to stand by their initial findings. The lack of clear answers has fueled public speculation and concern, with many demanding justice and transparency in the investigation.

Maria Kovalchuk remains in stable condition, although her recovery is expected to be a long and challenging process. Her family continues to reject the accident theory, maintaining that she was a victim of a calculated and brutal crime.

The Broader Context: Influencer Exploitation in Dubai

The story of Maria Kovalchuk has highlighted the darker side of the influencer and modelling world in Dubai. Reports indicate that Eastern European models and influencers are often targeted by criminal networks promising lucrative opportunities. Only to find themselves in dangerous, exploitative situations. The so-called “Porta Potty” parties, in particular, have become infamous for their abuse links. Human trafficking and extreme acts of degradation.

Other influencers have come forward anonymously, confirming that such parties exist and that women can be offered tens of thousands of dollars to participate. Sometimes, facing sexual violence and physical harm. Maria’s case has become a rallying point for greater awareness and calls for the protection of vulnerable models and influencers working abroad.

Maria Kovalchuk’s Road to Recovery

Despite the trauma and the unanswered questions, Maria Kovalchuk’s family remains hopeful. Her mother has stated that Maria is receiving medical care and that her recovery, though slow, is progressing. Maria cannot speak due to her injuries, and she is still without her documents or phone, which complicates communication and the investigation.

The international spotlight on Maria Kovalchuk’s case has brought renewed attention to the risks faced by young women in the modelling and influencer industries. Especially those working in foreign countries with limited protections. As the investigation continues, her story serves as a stark warning about the dangers lurking behind glamorous opportunities and the urgent need for accountability and justice.