Rewritten Title: Judiciary Intensifies Anti-Corruption Drive, Details Future Bank Case and 260 Government Employee Indictments
Article:
In a comprehensive press briefing, the Spokesperson for Iran’s Judiciary detailed a robust agenda focused on combating corruption, upholding national sovereignty, and enhancing judicial efficiency, while also shedding light on several high-profile cases.
Cracking Down on Economic Corruption
The Judiciary reported a significant number of indictments against government employees in the first half of the year. In Tehran alone, 271 cases were filed concerning offenses by state employees, resulting in 260 indictments and 33 convictions, with the remainder under active investigation.
The spokesperson emphasized a zero-tolerance policy towards individuals who impersonate military or state officials to commit fraud. Recent cases have led to severe punishments, including lengthy prison sentences, for those found guilty of using fake credentials, extortion, and ordering goods with fraudulent documents. “The Judiciary will pursue these cases swiftly and precisely,” the spokesperson stated, “to prevent the exploitation of public trust and ensure deterrent, severe, and unforgiving punishments.”
The Future Bank Case: A Multi-Administration Challenge
Addressing the high-profile case of the now-dissolved Future Bank, the spokesperson confirmed that the issue of its financial imbalances had involved the efforts of the last three successive administrations. Despite various corrective measures being monitored by different state bodies, these interventions ultimately proved insufficient, leading to the decision to dissolve the bank.
Following the dissolution, the Head of the Judiciary issued directives focusing on protecting depositors and ensuring that those responsible for violations are held accountable. The spokesperson assured that while the government is primarily tasked with ensuring economic security, the Judiciary will intervene wherever negligence or wrongdoing is detected to safeguard public rights.
Legal Action Against Israeli Ship Seizure
The briefing also covered the legal proceedings concerning an Israeli-affiliated ship seized by the IRGC Navy in the Strait of Hormuz last year. A indictment has been issued, and the court has been requested to impose a $170 million penalty on the vessel’s owner.
The spokesperson detailed that the owner is a influential figure within the Zionist regime, with a background in its intelligence apparatus, and is accused of financially supporting its naval forces. The ship’s cargo was found to contain hazardous materials, violating international regulations and principles of regional security. The case is now before the specialized international affairs court in Tehran.
Streamlining Justice and Combating Bureaucracy
A significant portion of the briefing was dedicated to the Judiciary’s ongoing modernization efforts. The spokesperson highlighted that the intelligent automation of judicial processes is a key strategy for reducing procedural delays, eliminating subjective biases, and enhancing transparency.
Initiatives like electronic summons delivery, which now accounts for 99% of all summonses, have tangibly improved the administration of justice across the country. These technological advancements are part of a broader push to bridge historical inequalities and deliver judicial and social justice to even the most remote areas of Iran.
Oversight on Essential Goods and Market Regulation
Responding to public concerns over the price and supply of essential commodities, the spokesperson confirmed that the State Inspection Organization is actively monitoring the situation. Several warning notices have been sent to relevant ministries, including the Ministry of Agriculture, concerning issues like monopolies in the import of livestock inputs, which can lead to price gouging and corruption.
The Presidency has since ordered the formation of a special working group to address these market disruptions, with several follow-up meetings held between judicial and executive officials. Cases have been filed against some officials for negligence, and large-scale profiteers, particularly in the rice supply chain, are facing legal action.
Through these multifaceted efforts, the Judiciary aims to reinforce the rule of law, protect the economic rights of citizens, and ensure accountability at all levels.