A British man detained in Iran has had two more years added to his jail sentence for speaking to the press about his incarceration, his family has learned.
Craig and Lindsay Foreman, both 53, have been on hunger strike 68 and 59 days respectively in protest at their treatment inside Iran’s notorious Evin prison.
The couple were arrested on a once-in-a-lifetime world motorbike tour 18 months ago, and were later sentenced to 10 years in prison on espionage charges, which they completely deny.
UN human rights experts have demanded their urgent release, warning that their incarceration raises grave concerns about state hostage-taking.
In a fresh blow this week, the couple’s family in Britain have received reports that Craig’s sentence has been extended in a hearing with no lawyer or translator.
Joe Bennett, Lindsay’s son and spokesperson for the family, said: “We have received extremely concerning reports that Craig has been sentenced to a further two years in prison.
We understand he was told he was being taken to see his lawyer but was instead brought before a judge and informed of the additional sentence. Despite requests, he was allowed no lawyer, no translator and no opportunity to defend himself.
“He was told the two years had been added because he had spoken to the press. We didn’t think we could be any more shocked at their appalling treatment, but in this case we are absolutely flabbergasted.”
More follows on this developing news story…
