Satirist Arrested Amidst Crackdown On Social Media Activists In Iran

Renowned satirist Shaker Bouri has been arrested by intelligence agents in Iran.

The arrest took place on July 31, and since then, there has been no information about his whereabouts or condition.

According to a statement from the Dadban Legal Education and Counseling Center, activists in Khuzestan province reported that Bouri disappeared after he visited the intelligence department of Abadan to collect his mobile phone after plainclothes forces previously raided his home, confiscated his cell phone, and took him away.

Bouri gained popularity on social media for his humorous yet pointed critiques of the country's officials and the prevailing issues. His satirical videos were known for their critical commentary, often touching on sensitive subjects.

Before his arrest, Bouri shared a picture of a history of anonymous calls from security institutions and disclosed that he was forced to delete some of his content.

Bouri's case is not an isolated incident, as the Iranian authorities have been cracking down on social media activists, artists, and comedians in recent months. Among them is Mehdi Etemad Saeed, a theater artist and actor who was arrested approximately two months ago.

Saeed, known for his work in underprivileged areas of Iran, especially in southern provinces and regions affected by natural disasters, has also been deprived of his right to legal representation and communication with his family.

Notably, several other artists and comedians including Taraneh Alidousti, Hengameh Ghaziani, Mohammad Sadeghi, Hamid Pourazari, Soheila Golestani, Zainab Mousavi, and others, have faced arrests and imprisonment during the Iranian uprising against the Islamic Republic.