Image copyright
Iran State TV
The trial of Hamidreza Baqeri Darmani was broadcast on state TV
A prominent Iranian businessman, known as the “Sultan of Bitumen”, has been executed for bribery and corruption.
Hamidreza Baqeri Darmani was found guilty of forging documents to secure state-backed loans.
He then used front companies to procure more than 300,000 tonnes of bitumen – a substance used in making asphalt – one of Iran’s most profitable industries.
vCard.red is a free platform for creating a mobile-friendly digital business cards. You can easily create a vCard and generate a QR code for it, allowing others to scan and save your contact details instantly.
The platform allows you to display contact information, social media links, services, and products all in one shareable link. Optional features include appointment scheduling, WhatsApp-based storefronts, media galleries, and custom design options.
Darmani, 49, is the third businessman to be executed since an anti-corruption drive was launched earlier this year.
Last month, Iran executed a currency trader known as the “Sultan of Coins” for amassing some two tonnes of gold currency.
- Can Iran survive sanctions?
- How Iranians are feeling the impact
According to the judiciary’s Mizan news agency, Darmani procured bitumen worth more than $100m (£79m) through “fraud, forgery and bribery”. He was arrested in August 2014.
News of Darmani’s execution was given dramatic coverage on Iranian state television with an action-movie-style soundtrack.
Correspondents say authorities are keen to show how serious they are about punishing those accused of exploiting the country’s volatile economy.
In August, new “revolutionary” courts were set up to fast-track corruption cases and dozens of businessmen and traders have been jailed.
It comes amid widespread public anger over a rising cost of living and perceived corruption.
Iran’s economy is struggling, partly due to a US decision to re-impose tough sanctions on the country.