Longest-detained remand prisoner released

Mt Eden Prison

Supporters of an Iranian man released after nearly four years in Mt Eden Prison say they are delighted to see him free.

Amir Mohebbi was released after an application for bail was heard in the High Court in August. The Government opposed the application.

Peace group, Global, Peace and Justice Auckland said Mr Mohebbi was the longest-detained remand prisoner in the history of New Zealand.

He was released on Sunday evening after being held for three years and 10 months.

Spokesman John Minto said Mr Mohebbi was detained "for refusing to agree to be deported to Iran despite the fact that as a Catholic convert it is unsafe for him to be returned to Iran".

Mr Minto said Mr Mohebbi had a New Zealand partner and three New Zealand children aged seven, five and three.

He said the Government should allow the Iranians to stay in New Zealand on humanitarian grounds and issue them with visas until it was safe to return to Iran.

- NZPA