Physical assault and violent attacks on families of the detainees of 22 Bahman

Physical assault and violent attacks on families of the detainees of February 11

Human Rights and Democracy Activists in Iran (HRDAI) were informed that the families of the detainees who had gathered in front of Vozara Prison in Enghelab Square requesting the release of their loved ones, were violently attacked by special guards.

On Thursday February 11th, the families of those arrested on the same day gathered in front of Vozara Prison to request the release of their loved ones.

A colonel in the police force talked to the families and said that up to 1000 people who were arrested on February 11th had been brought to the prison, therefore it is impossible to give concrete answers to all the families.

The families insisted that they would not leave until their loved ones were released. At this moment the mentioned colonel ordered an attack on the families and they were beaten by batons.

People began shouting slogans including, “Barrater, how much were you paid to make arrests?” More than 200 people were standing in front of the prison. They continued their protest until 9:00pm.

Many families who had gathered in front of Vozara Prison were asking for the release of the arrested girls and women. Their resistance resulted in the release of 40 girls and women.

Human Rights and Democracy Activists in Iran condemn the vicious attacks and arrests of peace-seeking citizens.

HRDAI asks the Secretary General and Human Rights High Commissioner to hold an emergency meeting at the UN Security Council to discuss and investigate the crimes committed against humans rights in the current regime of Iran.

Bahman 22, 1388- February 11, 2010

This report was sent to the following organizations:

• Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR)
• Human Rights Commission of European Union
• Amnesty International