A human rights organization reported that on Wednesday, December 19, Iranian judicial authorities executed at least six prisoners in Qazalhessar prison in Alborz province. According to the report by the Human Rights Activists in Iran, the executions took place early on Wednesday. One of the individuals executed was named Farzad Norouzi, charged with 'murder', while four others named Hassan-Ali Yousofi, Majid Jamshidi, Sohrab Ahmadipour, and Abdolbari Pakouhi, who were Afghan nationals, were executed in connection with drug-related offenses. Another individual, named Rastgouhi Kandalej, was executed for 'corruption on earth through terrorizing women and injuring them'. The Iranian judiciary announced that the investigation into Kandalej's case began in November 2018. He was accused of approaching women and girls from behind on a motorcycle while covering his face and attacking them with a 'bludgeon', described as a tool with a sharp iron head and a wooden handle, before fleeing. Kandalej's execution comes amidst numerous reports that government forces have repeatedly attacked protesters during nationwide protests in a similar manner, leading to injuries and even deaths. Eyewitnesses have stated that Mehrshad Shahidi, a young protester, was killed due to 'horrific beatings' and baton strikes from government forces. The state-run news agency Mizan, affiliated with the Iranian judiciary, confirmed the execution of this individual, stating that '59 women and girls were injured' in Tehran due to Kandalej's attacks. However, state media remained silent regarding the execution of the other prisoners on Wednesday. Members of the 'Tuesdays Against Execution' campaign previously described the 'Velayat-e Faqih government' as a 'record holder for gross human rights violations in the world' and called for the expansion of the fight against executions into a 'nationwide, more collective, and united movement'. Political prisoners associated with the 'Tuesdays Against Execution' campaign have repeatedly emphasized that the issuance and implementation of the death penalty by the Islamic Republic is aimed at instilling fear and terror in Iranian society.
Execution of at least 6 individuals in Qazalhessar by Iranian judicial authorities
On December 19, Iranian authorities executed at least six prisoners in Qazalhessar prison, including individuals charged with murder and drug offenses. The executions have drawn criticism from human rights activists, who argue that the Iranian government uses capital punishment to instill fear in society. This incident highlights ongoing human rights abuses in Iran.
👥 Key Players
⚡ Actions
📰 What Happened
Iran executed at least six prisoners in Qazalhessar prison, including Afghan nationals for drug offenses.
- Iranian judicial authorities execute Farzad Norouzi, Hassan-Ali Yousofi, Majid Jamshidi, Sohrab Ahmadipour, Abdolbari Pakouhi, Rastgouhi Kandalej
- Iranian judiciary announce Rastgouhi Kandalej
- government forces attack protesters
💡 Why It Matters
📚 Background
The executions signify the Iranian government's ongoing repression and disregard for human rights.
📝 Key Evidence
🏷️ Entities Mentioned
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Translation confidence: 85%