Journalist Hassan Fathi kept in solitary confinement

Human Rights House of IRAN -- According to the wife of imprisoned journalist Hassan Fathi, authorities have barred Mr. Fathi from visitations, strongly indicating that he is being held in solitary confinement.

In an interview with BBC Persian, Mrs. Fathi said that when she inquired about visiting her husband, judicial authorities told her that he would be released within 4 to 5 days.

She added, “Even when they requested that we appear to review his court dossier, we were told that he would be released within 4 to 5 days.” But despite this time having long gone by, there is still no news regarding Mr. Fathi’s promised release.

Plainclothes agents detained Mr. Fathi on November 13, 2011 at his home. According to reports, he was arrested due to an interview he conducted with BBC Persian regarding the explosion at an IRG ammunition depot that killed 17 Revolutionary Guards in southern Tehran. He is charged with “spreading lies and disturbing public opinion.”

Mrs. Fathi said that during the weeks that have gone by, judicial and prison authorities have not given any clear answer to her plea to see her husband, telling her only that he is banned from visitation.

She said that the behavior of the judicial and prison officials, who have been very curt and rude, is of great concern to their family. “It appears as though they have again transferred him to solitary confinement.”

Mrs. Fathi said that the last time their children were allowed to visit their father was about a month ago. The visitation was in person and at that time, it looked like Mr. Fathi was in good health.

Article in Persian: http://www.rahana.org/archives/47483