Death Of Young Motorcyclist Sparks Tensions In Iranian Town
Tensions are high in Fanuj in southeast Iran after regime forces ran over two motorcycles with their vehicles killing a young man.
The outraged local population have taken to the streets to protest the actions of the repressive forces in Sistan and Baluchestan province, home to various incidents of mass crackdowns since September.
Videos posted on social media show protesters throwing stones at a checkpoint and gunshots can be heard in the background.
Local media reported that police opened fire at the protesters.
The motorcyclist was identified as Samir Gordhani, 16, who succumbed to the injuries he sustained in the shooting.
Other reports say the teenager died after the police car ran over their motorcycle. However, the police authorities in Sistan-Baluchestan have denied the role of agents in the death of the motorcyclist.
IRNA state news agency says the commander of the police force of the province issued an order to investigate the incident without referring to the shootings.
In recent months, pressure on the people in Sistan-Baluchistan has increased, and the situation in various cities has been described as very tense, especially on Fridays, when residents come out to protest against the regime.
The protests began on September 30, 2022, afrer nationwide unrest began following the death of Mahsa Amini.
In the recent popular protests following the death in custody of Mahsa Amini, Sistan-Baluchestan has had the highest number of victims among 31 provinces.
