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Iran Demands Ransom for Protestors' Bodies

Published January 16, 2026, 16:13
Iran Demands Ransom for Protestors' Bodies

Serious allegations are emerging of Iranian authorities demanding financial payments from the families of protestors killed during recent unrest. According to testimonies gathered by the BBC, authorities are requesting substantial sums of money, ranging from $5,000 to $7,000, for the release of the bodies. In some cases, families are unable to meet these demands, as the cost is disproportionately high compared to their income. Furthermore, nurses report secretly informing families of their loved ones' deaths and advising them to collect the bodies before security forces arrive and demand payment. One woman described the ordeal of transporting her husband's body for seven hours in the back of a pickup truck. There are also reports that authorities offer to release the bodies without charge if families declare the deceased was a member of the Basij, a paramilitary organization. This suggests an attempt to control the narrative surrounding the deaths of protestors and present a specific image. Overall, estimates indicate that at least 2,435 people have lost their lives in the protests that began in Iran two weeks ago. The allegations of ransom demands add another layer of tragedy and injustice to the already tense situation.