A further fatality has resulted from maltreatment and torture while in police custody in Iran.
The most recent fatal incident involving the Iranian police has brought to light the systematic use of torture and the violation of human rights. Despite the initiation of investigations and inquiries, expectations for a comprehensive reform of the Iranian security authorities have, thus far, remained unfulfilled.
The case of Seyyed Mohammad Mirmousavi, a 36-year-old Iranian national who died in police custody on 24 August 2024, has provoked a wave of indignation across the country and given rise to demands for accountability. Mirmousavi was taken to a police station in Langarud, where he was subjected to torture. Four days later, his body, which exhibited unmistakable indications of having been subjected to physical abuse, was transferred to the custody of his family.
The Iranian authorities initially attempted to conceal the victim’s identity and intimidate the family into silence. However, following the exposure of the case by the media, the government changed its tactics. As a result, arrest warrants were issued for five police officers and a committee of enquiry was set up to investigate the incident. In the past, however, such committees have often failed to deliver tangible results.
Mirmousavi had persistently sought medical assistance during his period of detention, citing feelings of illness. Nevertheless, these requests were not addressed. It is reported that he ultimately succumbed to internal haemorrhaging. The family was subjected to pressure from the security authorities to refrain from disclosing any information regarding the case, and was threatened with legal action and arrest.
The Mirmousavi case is one of numerous deaths in Iranian police custody, often caused by torture, and thus joins a long list of similar incidents. These incidents lead to the conclusion that the conditions within the Iranian judiciary and the widespread disregard for human rights are cause for concern. The death of Mahsa Amini in 2022, also in police custody, resulted in nationwide protests and contributed to a heightened awareness of the prevalence of violence in Iranian prisons.
The Mirmousavi case was met with vehement condemnation from a multitude of individuals and organisations, including human rights activists, journalists, and lawyers. In light of these circumstances, it has been recommended that comprehensive reforms be implemented with regard to the treatment of detainees in Iran. The points of criticism include the use of violent practices in police detention centres and the demand that the Iranian authorities fulfil their duty to protect the lives and health of prisoners.
In accordance with Iranian legislation, officials who contravene the rights of detainees must be prosecuted and face disciplinary action.
Mirmousavi’s death serves to illustrate the pervasive deficiencies and absence of accountability within the Iranian law enforcement apparatus. This case underscores the imperative for reforms within the Iranian justice system, with the aim of safeguarding the human rights of citizens.
As human rights organisations, we urge all democratic states, the United Nations and international human rights organisations to demand that the Iranian authorities respect the rights of detainees and, in particular, ensure that they are provided with the necessary medical care.
Vienna, 09.02.2024
Dr. Behrouz Bayat
Komitee zur Verteidigung der Menschenrechte im Iran, Österreich
| Prof. Dr. Siroos Mirzaei Medical Professionals for Human Rights in Iran – Austria |