Religious Prisoner Ghasem Abesteh Infected with COVID-19 on Death Row

Hengaw: A religious prisoner who has been sentenced to death in Rajaei Shahr in Karaj has been diagnosed with COVID-19.

Hengaw Organization for Human Rights received reports indicating that Ghasem Abesteh, a Kurdish religious prisoner who on death row in Rajaei Shahr central prison is not infected with the novel coronavirus.

An informed source said that Ghasem Abesteh, together with several other prisoners in Rajaei Shahr prison, have been quarantined since their health condition is said to be worsening. 

Ghasem Abesteh had an operation for Thyroid cancer and has kidney disorders. He will face death threatening situation if he does not receive intensive care.

The Ettelaat forces (Iran’s intelligence) arrested Ghasem Abesteh on December 2009 together with six other religious activists. They were sentenced to death by the Islamic Republic of Iran judiciary for allegedly"acting against national security" and "Corruption on the ground" charges.