HRANA – Benjamin Vahidi, a 17-year-old resident of Bojnurd, was arrested to begin serving his prison sentence. He had previously been sentenced in absentia to two years in prison and a paying a fine in connection with the January 2026 protests.
According to HRANA, Benjamin Vahidi has been arrested to serve his sentence.
A source familiar with the teenager’s family confirmed the arrest to HRANA, stating that in late July, several officers entered the family’s home at around 9:00 p.m. and arrested him after physically assaulting him. Following his arrest, he was initially transferred to Police Station No. 11 in Bojnurd. His current place of detention remains unknown.
The source added that the family was informed Benjamin would be denied phone calls and visitation rights until the monetary fine is paid.
Benjamin Vahidi had previously been convicted by a judicial authority in Bojnurd in connection with the protests on charges including “disrupting public order and peace,” “damaging public property,” and “clashing with law enforcement officers.” He was sentenced to two years of discretionary imprisonment and ordered to pay a 100 million toman fine. The sentence was issued in absentia, without Mr. Vahidi’s presence in court and without access to legal counsel. His family has also been informed that the verdict is final.
Benjamin Vahidi, 17, is an athlete specializing in boxing and mixed martial arts (MMA).
Background on the January 2026 Protests
It should be noted that protests and strikes by shopkeepers and bazaar merchants began in Tehran on Sunday, December 28, 2025, and within two days spread beyond markets and commercial centers. With the participation of students, citizens, and various social groups, these protests became one of the largest protest movements of recent years. Following the crackdown by security and law enforcement forces, thousands were killed or injured, and tens of thousands were arrested or summoned by security agencies. For more information, readers may refer to HRANA’s comprehensive report titled “Crimson Winter,” documenting the first fifty days following the outbreak of Iran’s nationwide protests.