Comedian Omid Djalili has revealed that Iranian authorities demanded $5,000 (£3,700) from the family of a friend whose brother was killed during recent protests. The regime required payment to release the body and a signed declaration falsely stating the victim was a security force member killed by a protester.
Djalili, known for BBC's Live at the Apollo, shared the account in an interview with The Times. He described the practice as 'sick and dark', highlighting the regime's brutal tactics amid ongoing unrest. Human rights groups estimate over 2,400 people may have died in the crackdown, with internet shutdowns hampering verification.
The comedian cited estimates from Iran International suggesting up to 12,000 deaths, while the lowest figure stands at 2,000. He also described a video of teenagers shot in the head by security forces, calling the situation 'horrific'.
Djalili, who has Iranian parents, has repeatedly condemned the regime's actions. In a previous LBC appearance, he criticised the 'lunatic fundamentalist version of Islam' and detailed how families are invoiced for bullets used to kill their loved ones.
