At least seven prisoners were executed in five Iranian prisons, including five Baloch citizens. The executions were carried out on charges related to drug offenses and murder.
The executed individuals include Abdul Basit Totazi (38), Nawab Ahl-e-Rostai, Abdul Nasir Totazi (38), son of Amir Hamza, Nematullah Totazi (33), Mohammad Ali (36), and Reza Kharkohi (43).
Reportedly, Abdul Basit, Abdul Nasir, and Nematullah were arrested in connection with a joint drug-related case and sentenced to death by the court. Reza and Mohammad Ali were arrested approximately seven years ago for similar drug-related crimes and also received death sentences.
In addition to the Baloch prisoners, two other individuals were executed, including one woman, though their identities have not been disclosed.
Baloch citizens, who make up about five to six percent of Iran’s population, have the highest execution rate in the country. This stark disparity in execution rates has raised concerns about systemic discrimination against ethnic and religious minorities in Iran.
This wave of executions highlights a broader and troubling trend, as at least 34 Baloch citizens have been executed in the first half of 2024 alone. Of these, 27 were executed for drug-related crimes, while seven others were put to death for murder.