Iran: concerns grow over the safety of journalists
Authorities must confirm the whereabouts of four journalists unaccounted for since fire broke out at Evin prison.
The NUJ has joined the International Federation of Journalists in expressing concern over the safety of journalists at Tehran’s Evin prison.
Clashes between prisoners and officers led to a fire on 15 October, with at least 60 people injured and eight killed. Journalists Ruhollah Nakhai, Alireza Jabari Darestani, Ahmadreza Halabisaz and Farshid Gurbanpour remain unaccounted for and have made no contact with their families following the incident.
Since protests began across Iran last month, 24 journalists have been arrested with 18 still detained. The NUJ is calling for swift action to ensure the release of all journalists wrongfully held.
Antony Bellanger, IFJ general Secretary, said:
“We are very concerned about the fate of our colleagues in Evin and remind the Iranian authorities that they are responsible for the lives of journalists in prison. Once again we demand the immediate release of all journalists who are unfairly detained in Evin and other prisons in Iran for doing their job.”