A protester arrested in Iran is currently facing the threat of the death penalty.
The Operative Information Center-OMM, citing Iran International, reports that 33-year-old Babak Kharbo, who was detained in Isfahan, is facing charges that could lead to capital punishment.
According to a source close to his family, Kharbo was arrested in February in the city of Diziche and is currently being held in Dastgerd prison. It is reported that he has been denied access to legal counsel since his detention. Allegations have also emerged suggesting that he was subjected to torture during his interrogation. Furthermore, authorities have reportedly warned his family against taking any measures to secure his release.
Babak Kharbo is the uncle of 20-year-old Alireza Kharbo, who lost his life during protests held in January. Sources claim that Alireza was shot during the demonstrations and subsequently died in custody. His body was later returned to the family with multiple gunshot wounds. Reports indicate that at least three other protesters lost their lives during the same events.
Human rights organizations have frequently expressed concern over the treatment of detainees in Iran, particularly those involved in civil unrest. The use of the death penalty against protesters and allegations of confessions obtained under duress remain significant points of international criticism. Dastgerd prison, located in Isfahan, has been frequently mentioned in reports regarding the harsh treatment of political prisoners and the implementation of execution sentences.
