Kurdish cultural activist Matin Faramarzi detained in Mahabad, whereabouts unknown

Hengaw – Friday, July 10, 2026

Iranian security forces detained Kurdish cultural activist Matin Faramarzi in the city of Mahabad and took him to an undisclosed location.

According to information obtained by the Hengaw Organization for Human Rights, Faramarzi was detained on July 8, 2026, in Sheikh Shaltout Park in Mahabad without authorities presenting a warrant.

Sources familiar with the case said security forces used physical force during the detention, beating Faramarzi and forcing him into a vehicle before taking him to an undisclosed location.

Two days after his detention, the reasons for his arrest, charges against him and his exact whereabouts remain unknown.