The arrest of Baloch citizens in Iran frequently occurs without due process and is often accompanied by severe human rights violations. Security forces of the Islamic Republic of Iran routinely detain individuals without informing them of the charges or presenting a valid judicial warrant. These arrests commonly take place at residences, workplaces, or even in public spaces and are often carried out with violence and degrading treatment.
Escalation of Unlawful Arrests in 2024
In 2024, the Iranian security apparatus intensified its arbitrary and unlawful arrests of Baloch citizens, marking a significant escalation in human rights violations. According to BHRG reports, at least 364 individuals were detained, many of whom were subjected to illegal and repressive practices.
Key figures from these documented cases include:
- At least 5 women, two of whom were under 18.
- 18 boys under the age of 18.
- 17 detainees without identification documents, further complicating their legal status.
Deportation and Forced Expulsions
In several instances, detainees were forcibly transferred to deportation camps designated for foreign nationals without their families being notified. These individuals were subsequently deported to Afghanistan, exposing them to severe humanitarian crises including lack of shelter, deprivation of basic necessities, and security threats.
Attempts by these individuals to return to Balochistan were met with direct gunfire from Iranian border forces. Reports of deaths and disappearances in these circumstances have further deepened the crisis, highlighting the systematic persecution of Baloch citizens.
