In recent days, security forces have swept through various Kurdish cities, arresting at least 13 civilians and activists, with three now imprisoned. Authorities have launched this crackdown across Kermanshah, Sarpol-e Zahab, Sanandaj, Divandarreh, Bukan, and Mahabad. A few arrested individuals, including two minors, have secured provisional bail following the latest wave of detentions.
Notable arrests include Armin Moradi, Mohammad Azizi, and Mohammad Yousefi, taken off the streets of Kermanshah. Subsequently, the IRGC apprehended several more in Sarpol-e Zahab, transferring them to the Nabi Akram detention facility. These detentions occurred without warrants, reflecting a troubling trend observed across the region.
On 15 December, multiple arrests were made at homes and a restaurant in Sarpol-e Zahab, implicating individuals in alleged opposition recruitment efforts. A local prosecutor claimed these were members of a so-called “Takfiri network,” accused of inciting local youth through financial enticements. This narrative reiterates the government’s focus on suppressing dissent by any means necessary.
January witnessed further arrests: Behzad Barakhasi in Divandarreh and environmental activist Jiyan Miri in Sanandaj, both detained without warrants. Concurrently, siblings Srwa and Peyman Shiri began serving sentences for anti-state propaganda after a previous release on bail. Their cases illustrate the continuing cycle of arrest and punishment faced by activists.
Amidst these crackdowns, some have regained freedom. Two minors, Rizgar Mowloudi and Kamyar Izadi, were released from juvenile detention after 13 days. Their tentative steps back to liberty stand in stark contrast to the fates of others, like Ebrahim Gol-Anbar, arrested in the wake of his brother’s death during protests.
– At least 13 Kurdish civilians arrested, with three imprisoned. – Notable arrests in Kermanshah include activists and minors. – Government claims arrests target a “Takfiri network” for inciting rebellion. – Continuing suppression of dissent raises concerns over human rights. – Some minors released on bail amid ongoing crackdowns.
The wave of arrests among Kurdish civilians reveals a harsh reality for activists and ordinary citizens alike. As security forces implement severe measures to quash any dissent, the plight of detainees remains precarious, marked by limited rights and harsh interrogations. The ongoing clampdown signals a troubling chapter for human rights in the region, urging international scrutiny and support for those affected.
The ongoing situation in Kurdish regions of Iran involves escalating tensions between security forces and local activists. Recent government actions reflect broader measures to stifle dissent and control potential opposition movements. With numerous arrests carried out without warrants, families of detainees are left seeking information amid a climate of fear. The Kurdish community continues to face systemic persecution in their struggle for autonomy and rights in Iran.
Original Source: kurdistanhumanrights.org
