What we know about the Burnaby man whose disappearance is being investigated by IHIT

In the days since he was last seen on Monday, Feb. 2, Burnaby RCMP have said little about the search for Masood Masjoody, but have described his disappearance as suspicious and turned over the investigation to the Lower Mainland's Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT).

IHIT spokesperson Sgt. Freda Fong says investigators think Masjoody's disappearance was not random, and they believe some family and friends who have important information have not yet spoken to investigators.

While little is known about his disappearance, Masjoody has been in the public eye for a number of years — a prolific user of social media and someone with a long history in the civil court system.

Masjoody, 45, has sued Simon Fraser University (SFU), social media company X and the son of the last Iranian shah, among others, according to court documents. There has been no suggestion from police of any link between his court disputes and his disappearance.

IHIT announced Wednesday that it was taking over the case after police in Burnaby began an investigation into Masjoody's disappearance following reports from concerned neighbours.

“Mr. Masjoody is known for his online presence and as a mathematician who previously worked in academia [ … ] A person’s background, lifestyle, and affiliations form a part of every IHIT investigation. As with all cases, it will be taken into consideration when identifying a motive,” said Fong in a written statement.

Burnaby RCMP determined that his disappearance was “out of character and that criminality was involved.” IHIT said there are no indications that his disappearance is linked to gangs or extortions.

IHIT has appealed to friends and family who have not yet spoken with police to come forward.

Masjoody has filed a number of civil lawsuits and appeals since 2020. Last year, a judge found Masjoody had continued “vexatious” proceedings against a large number of parties.

Masjoody lost his job at SFU following a harassment complaint from a colleague. He subsequently filed a defamation lawsuit that was dismissed.

In 2024, Masjoody, who described himself as a “veteran pro‑democracy activist and dissident of the Islamic regime ruling Iran,” sued Reza Pahlavi, who is the son of Iran's last shah and a key figure in the recent Iranian anti-government demonstrations, and the social media website X, as well as more than a dozen other individuals.

Masjoody alleged the defendants defamed him through posts on X, and X was “vicariously liable” for the publication of the statements, according to a judge’s ruling.

That same judgment found an amended civil claim by Masjoody against Reza Pahlavi, X and a number of other defendants was “unnecessary and vexatious” and “embarrassing.” 

The judge struck the amended notice of civil claim, but allowed Masjoody to file a new notice that complies with the Supreme Court’s civil rules. The judge also encouraged Masjoody to “seek the assistance of counsel going forward.”