In the past few months, at least 14 Christians have been detained in Iranian prisons for weeks without legal counsel as last year’s crackdown continues, sources said.
Three Christians remained in detention at Evin Prison after authorities arrested them along with 12 others who had gathered for Christmas celebrations Dec. 24 in a home 12 miles southeast of Iran’s capital, Tehran, according to a source who requested anonymity.
While the others were released Jan. 4, Maryam Jalili, Mitra Zahmati and Farzan Matin remain at the prison. Authorities have promised the release of the three Christians but have yet to let them go.
Within days after their arrest, Jalili’s sister, Mobina Jalili, and another Christian were arrested in Isfahan. The source said these two have had no contact with their families. The location and conditions of their detainment are unknown.
In the southwestern city of Shiraz, seven Christians have been detained since Jan. 11, another source said, and most of them may face charges of apostasy, or leaving Islam.
Yousef Nadarkhani, who was arrested Oct. 13 last year in Rasht, remains in prison. (CD)
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