Iran's President Orders Probe into Death in Custody

Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian has ordered an investigation into the death of a detainee in Lahijan. Five policemen have been arrested in connection with the case, and forensic analysis is underway. The incident highlights ongoing concerns about detainee rights and follows multiple custodial deaths this year.

Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian has ordered an investigation into the death of a detainee in the northern city of Lahijan, according to state media reports issued on Thursday. The head of government public relations, Elias Hazrati, announced the president's directive for the interior minister to form a committee to examine all facets of the incident and report its findings promptly to the cabinet.

The judiciary's Mizan news agency reported that five policemen were arrested in connection with the case but withheld details about the deceased's identity, the charges he faced, and the date of his death. Lahijan's prosecutor, Ebrahim Ansari, stated that steps were taken to address rights violations and that the policemen were held under a temporary arrest warrant.

Forensic pathologists are currently investigating the cause of death, though further information has not been disclosed. Advocacy group Hengaw identified the deceased as 36-year-old Mohammad Mirmousavi and alleged he was tortured to death on the day of his arrest. This case marks the seventh custodial death reported this year, with rising concerns over detainee rights following past incidents like the death of Mahsa Amini in 2022.

(With inputs from agencies.)