Hussain Hazbavi 
A 19-year-old man was shot dead at close range by police during a confrontation at Zibakenar Beach in northern Iran, sparking public outrage and protests, according to a report by the Norway-based Hengaw human rights organization.
The victim, Sahel Nasiri, was with his friend Benyamin Gholami on Friday evening when officers reportedly attempted to search them and confiscate their motorcycle. Local sources told Hengaw that Nasiri resisted and tried to ride away when police opened fire, shooting him twice in the head.
Nasiri died on the spot. His body was transferred to the local police station, while Gholami was detained.
Authorities in Gilan province claimed Nasiri and his companion were in possession of drugs—crystal meth, marijuana, and hashish—and alleged that Nasiri tried to grab a police weapon, prompting officers to “neutralize” him after firing a warning shot.
Witnesses and rights groups have disputed the official narrative, describing the police response as excessive and unjustified. Nasiri’s killing quickly provoked anger in the coastal town of Zibakenar, where residents took to the streets and set fire to banners on the local police station.
According to Hengaw, security forces violently dispersed the demonstrators later that night, putting an end to the protest through force.
Nasiri’s body was eventually handed over to his family under pressure from residents and after hours of threats by authorities. He was buried in his hometown on Saturday.
The case has added to growing concerns over police violence and impunity in Iran, especially in provinces where the government enforces harsh crackdowns under the guise of maintaining order.
