TEHRAN: Iranian authorities have arrested a foreign national and seized a shipment of hand-to-hand weapons in the country's northwest, state media reported on Wednesday.

"A 14-ton shipment of various types of professional weapons and items that can be used in riots was discovered and seized upon entering Iran," the official IRNA news agency said.

"A foreign national was detained," it added, without specifying the individual's nationality.

The shipment allegedly included stun guns, batons, knives, and weapon accessories.

The seizure took place in West Azerbaijan province amid heightened security measures following mass anti-government protests that peaked last month and left thousands dead, including members of the security forces.

The demonstrations erupted on December 28, initially over the rising cost of living, before spreading nationwide.

Iranian authorities have acknowledged more than 3,000 deaths during the unrest, which they say began as peaceful protests before turning into "riots" involving killings and vandalism, and which they blame on the United States and Israel.

The US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA) said it has confirmed 6,872 deaths, mostly protesters killed by security forces, while other rights groups warn the toll is likely far higher.

Articles tagged with "West Azerbaijan"

Iran arrests foreign national, seizes weapons shipment: state media