Iran arrests 30 over sabotage during January protests

TEHRAN, Aug. 28 (YPA) – Iran’s Central Province General Directorate of Security declared on Friday the arrest of 30 people accused of leading or participating in acts of sabotage targeting public and private property during protests in the cities of Mahallat and Nimeh Var in January.

In a statement carried by Iran’s official news agency, the directorate said security personnel identified and arrested the suspects based on reports from residents and intelligence monitoring, adding that they were linked to U.S.-Israeli networks.

The statement accused the suspects of carrying out widespread acts of vandalism during the January unrest, including setting fire to homes, major stores, banks, ambulances, private vehicles, government buildings and several mosques.

It also alleged attacks on railway infrastructure, threats to passengers and looting of shops and commercial properties.

The statement said authorities also seized bladed weapons, including swords, axes and knives, as well as large quantities of alcoholic beverages and narcotics from the suspects.