Masoud Bastani, extension of furlough denied and returned to prison

Committee of Human Rights Reporters – Masoud Bastani, journalist whose furlough was not extended, returned to Rajai Shahr prison in Karaj on September 15. Since his arrest in 2009, this was the first time he was released on furlough at the same time his wife, jailed journalist Mahsa Amrabadi was also on furlough.

Masoud Bastani, head of “Jomhooriat” website was detained on July 5, 2009 and was handed a 6-year prison sentence by the Revolutionary Court on the charges of “propaganda against the regime,” and “gathering with intention to disturb the peace.” He was held in Evin prison but on January 25, 2010 he was transferred to Rajai Shahr prison where dangerous criminals are held.

His wife journalist Mahsa Amrabadi was detained in June 2009 and spent more than 60 days behind bars. She was detained a second time on March 1 along with Fakhrolsadat Mohtashamipour and Shahin Jahadi during the time of Green Movement protests against the illegal house arrest of Mir Hossein Mousavi, Mehdi Karroubi and their wives. She was released in March 2011 before the Noruz (new year) holidays.

On June 12, 2011 Branch 28 of the Revolutionary Court presided by Judge Moghise handed Amrabadi a one year prison sentence on the charge of “propaganda against the regime by reporting and conducting interviews.” She was serving her sentence behind bars in Evin prison until she was granted furlough on July 17, 2013