Inmate on Death Row Dies by Suicide in Lakan Prison

On February 23, an inmate on death row in Lakan Prison, Rasht City, died by suicide after a fight with his fellow inmate.

According to HRANA, the news agency of Human Rights Activists, the inmate cut the artery in his wrist and lost his life.

HRANA has identified the inmate as Seyyed Ali Rezai, age 18, a resident of Someh-Sara City.

An informed source told HRANA: “Yesterday, at 4 pm, this inmate had a quarrel with his fellow inmate, Hossein Besazandi, age 20, who also has been convicted for murder and held in Ward 8 of Lakan Prison. In this fight, Hossein Besazandi was injured by a sharp object and lost consciousness due to wounds. After that, Ali Rezai, who thought he was dead, committed suicide.”

Inmate Dead After Hunger Strike and Suicide Attempt in Ilam Prison

On December 1, an inmate in Ilam Prison died of injuries stemming from a suicide attempt and inadequate medical treatment. The day before, the inmate had attempted suicide by pill following a four day hunger strike. After having his stomach pumped in prison healthcare, he was sent back to his ward without any medical supervision.

According to HRANA, the news agency of Human Rights Activists, quoting Kurdpa, the inmate was 30 year old Ruhollah Maleki. His death ultimately resulted from inadequate medical treatment and supervision by prison officials.

Maleki was sent back to his ward while he was still in critical health condition and in need of regular medical supervision. Moreover, he was beaten by prison guards and held in a solitary confinement cell on the second day of his hunger strike.

On March 6, 2013, Maleki was arrested for committing murder. He was sentenced to capital punishment in 2014.