Anniversary of Mahsa; Increase in Arrests in Kurdistan and Ardabil

Continuing the efforts of security forces to prevent the commemoration of the anniversary of the killing of Mahsa (Jina) Amini, human rights sources reported the arrest of several individuals in Kurdistan and Ardabil provinces. According to HRANA, the news agency of the Human Rights Activists in Iran, the security deputy of Kurdistan, Mehdi Ramazani, announced on Saturday, September 16, that several people have been arrested on charges of 'membership in opposition groups' in this province. This comes as this security official stated that the detainees were photographing or filming public places such as shops and commercial and industrial locations. Mehdi Ramazani did not provide details about the number, identity of the detainees, the location of their detention, or the connection between photographing public places and the charge of 'membership in opposition groups.' Meanwhile, the prosecutor of Ardabil reported the arrest of two citizens on charges of 'actions against national security.' According to ILNA news agency, Jalal Afaqei did not mention the identity and location of detention of these two individuals, identifying the detaining authority as the General Directorate of Intelligence of Ardabil Province. Officials of the Islamic Republic, expressing concern about the resumption of nationwide protests, have significantly increased the wave of arrests in recent weeks. In recent weeks, dozens of individuals, including journalists, civil activists, political activists, student union activists, cultural figures, and workers have been arrested on security charges. According to HRANA, the Iranian government has arrested at least 292 protesters and civil activists within a span of 50 days, from the beginning of Mordad to September 14 this year. Human Rights Watch emphasized in a statement that the Islamic Republic authorities have intensified the repression of dissent through intimidation, arrests, and prosecutions. Efforts to prevent the commemoration of Mahsa Amini's anniversary; the possibility of 'house arrest' for Mahsa's father and restrictions on access to the cemetery. Concurrently with Mahsa's anniversary; protest gatherings in various cities around the world; a heavy military presence and 'strikes' in Kurdish cities. Mahsa's anniversary; the American PEN Association: Human rights experts should investigate the repression of writers and artists in Iran. Mahsa's anniversary; Reporters Without Borders: During the 'widespread repression' of protests, 79 Iranian journalists were arrested.