Iranian Dissident's Murder: Suspects Charged

0:00It's March 26. This is Vancouver News Today, powered by AI. Two suspects face first-degree murder charges in the death of 45-year-old Masoud Masudi, an outspoken Iranian dissident and former Simon. Fraser University Professor. The man from Maple Ridge and the woman from North Vancouver appeared by video in Vancouver Provincial Court this week. Their case got put over until April 27 so lawyers can share evidence. Masudi went missing in early February and his remains turned up in mission on March 6. Investigators call the killing targeted, linked to ongoing disputes between Masudi and the accused. He had a history of filing lawsuits against former colleagues, judges, and others, including these two suspects. Court records show he accused them of ties to Iran's regime, claims they denied. Outside the courthouse, two groups of onlookers got into a heated argument that Sharers had to break up. Iranian-Canadian activists are on edge, worried about threats from abroad.

1:03One expert noted Masudi's vocal criticism of both Iran's rulers and exile groups made him enemies on multiple sides. Afadavits from last year mentioned warnings to Masudi about the suspects seeking ways to harm him, including talk of substances, to make it look natural. None of those claims have gone to trial yet. The pair await a bail hearing date, with a publication ban on court details for now. The case heads to British Columbia Supreme Court down the line as more facts come to light.