Ashkan Balouch (Baluch), a kickboxing athlete detained during Iran’s 2022 protests, has reportedly died under mysterious circumstances.

Milad Abdi, a former political prisoner once confined with Balouch in Tehran's prison, has branded his death a “suicide.” However, judicial and forensic authorities have yet to comment.

According to Abdi, Balouch, had been granted amnesty after two suicide attempts. In October 2022, he was transferred to prison by security forces on his way home and, after a period of interrogations, was sentenced to five years in prison for charges of "collusion and conspiracy against national security."

However, it is believed Balouch had been summoned to the Ministry of Intelligence office a few days ago for further interrogation. Abdi has stated, "Ashkan repeatedly said he had no role in the protests." 

The Islamic Republic has executed at least eight protesters in connection with the uprising sparked in September 2022 in response to the killing of Mahsa Amini in police custody.

According to human rights organizations, at least 551 protesters, including 68 children, were killed during the uprising. At least 22 individuals lost their lives under suspicious circumstances or due to suicide, and hundreds more suffered eye injuries. Thousands more were arbitrarily arrested.