Exact circumstances unclear – young Iranian woman died after arrest

She eventually died in hospital on Friday, Iranian state television reported. Police confirmed the death and said there was no “physical contact” between her and the police officers. It had previously been reported on social media that officers had beaten the young woman. The 1500tasvir broadcaster, which reports on human rights violations in Iran, also spoke of a blow to the head.

So far, however, the exact circumstances of Amini’s death are unclear. She was reportedly arrested in the capital Tehran on Tuesday by the vice squad, which is responsible for enforcing strict dress codes for women. Amini was allegedly taken to a police station along with other women for “wearing inappropriate clothing” to be informed about the regulations. In a conference room, the 22-year-old “suddenly passed out” and was taken to hospital. Previously, there was talk of a headscarf worn incorrectly.

Amnesty calls for investigation
The human rights organization Amnesty International has already called for an investigation into the circumstances of the young woman’s “suspicious” death. At the same time, she reported that there were “accusations of torture and other ill-treatment during detention”, with which the organization shared the version of the station and social media.

Amini’s body was also taken to the coroner’s office, according to state television. Before her death was announced, Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi said he had instructed the interior minister to investigate the matter.

Iran’s moral police has been increasingly criticized lately. Since the Islamic Revolution in 1979, women of all nationalities and faiths have had to cover their hair in public. Over the past two decades, however, many women in Tehran and other major cities have taken the rules lightly and have at least had a few locks of hair peeking out of their veils.