Turkish Court Orders Release of Detained Iranian Ahmadi Faith Members

Update 15 Sep 2025 - The Criminal Court of Peace in Ağrı has ruled for the release of three Iranian members of the Ahmadi Religion of Peace and Light, Sajjad Jafari, Ali Lakzaeian, and Mansour Dehghan, who have been detained in Turkey since February 2025.

Originally held in Isparta for peacefully engaging in missionary activities, they were accused of “disturbing public order” solely for sharing their faith through posters and literature. Their detention sparked a widespread international campaign, with human rights organizations around the globe demanding their freedom.

In July 2025, the UN Human Rights Committee issued urgent interim measures instructing Turkey not to deport them to Iran, where they face severe persecution, imprisonment, or even execution because of their beliefs. The legal application was prepared and submitted with the support of the Rule 39 Pro Bono Initiative and AsyLex, whose dedicated advocacy was instrumental in today’s decision.

The Turkish court found the charge of disrupting public order to be unjustified and ruled that no legal grounds existed for their continued detention. Consequently, the administrative detention order was lifted, and their immediate release was ordered.

We extend our congratulations to the global community of believers and express our heartfelt thanks to the Rule 39 Pro Bono Initiative, AsyLex, and all human rights advocates whose unwavering efforts contributed to this achievement.

The judgment stands as a powerful testament to the impact of international solidarity and persistent defense of human rights in saving lives.