The detention of Amir Ali (Hasan) Roodgar, a young man from Noshahr, has now become one of the concerning examples of judicial uncertainty following nationwide protests for over a month; a detention that has been accompanied by injuries, family unawareness, and allegations of torture, and continues without any official announcement of charges or verdict [1].
According to published information, Amir Ali Roodgar was shot with a pellet gun during the protests on January 7, 2024, and was injured in the face and neck [1]. Less than three weeks later, on January 26, 2024, plainclothes forces affiliated with the IRGC detained him with violence [1].
According to informed sources, he was held in Sari Prison from the time of his arrest until February 9, 2024, without any official notification to his family. During this time, his family, despite repeated inquiries, did not receive a clear response regarding his whereabouts [1]. His transfer to Noshahr Prison on February 9, 2024, did not signify the end of the ambiguities; as his legal status remains unclear and no information regarding charges or judicial proceedings has been released [1].
Reports also indicate that Amir Ali Roodgar faced physical and psychological torture during his detention. According to these reports, he spoke in a calm and trembling voice during a phone call and was not in a good physical or mental state [1]. These allegations come at a time when no official has provided any explanation regarding his conditions of detention or the status of his case.
The plight of this family does not end here. Two of Amir Ali's brothers have also faced judicial actions. Hossein Roodgar, the village chief of Kohpar in the Noshahr district, was temporarily detained and dismissed from his job after his release. Majid Roodgar was also imprisoned in Noshahr for six days and is now released on bail [1].
In the last Instagram story shared by Amir Ali Roodgar before his detention, he wrote: "From this moment on, whatever is said about me, know that it was forced, not voluntary; I have expressed my thoughts before... I have one life, and I would sacrifice it a thousand times for my homeland. Forgive me... I only ask those who have honor to be my voice if anything happens." [1]
The continued detention and lack of transparency regarding the legal status of this young man from Noshahr have heightened the concerns of his family and loved ones; a concern that remains unanswered in the shadow of official silence [1].
Sources:
Report submitted regarding the continuation of detention and the status of Amir Ali (Hasan) Roodgar, related to the January 7 protests in Noshahr.
