A senior Iranian police officer was killed in a knife attack on Thursday while on duty in Tehran’s Malard district, as security forces attempted to control growing unrest in the area.
According to local security sources, Lieutenant Colonel Shahin Dehqan came under attack during protests in the central part of Malard, where demonstrations have been ongoing for days over economic and social grievances.
A group of assailants reportedly stabbed the officer while he was trying to disperse crowds and restore order.
Dehqan was rushed to a nearby hospital immediately after the attack, but doctors later confirmed that he had succumbed to his injuries.
Authorities said the incident took place amid heightened tensions in the district, where protests have intensified over the past week. Security forces had deployed additional personnel in an effort to contain the situation and prevent further violence.
Local sources said demonstrations in Malard have continued despite the increased security presence, with residents voicing anger over worsening living conditions and economic hardship.
The killing of the officer marks a serious escalation in the unrest, as violence against security personnel has remained relatively rare compared to clashes between protesters and police in recent days.
Officials have not yet released details about the attackers or announced any arrests. An investigation into the incident is under way.
The incident comes as several Iranian cities have seen protests linked to rising prices and economic pressures, putting security forces on high alert across the capital and surrounding areas.
Authorities have called for calm while warning that attacks on law enforcement personnel will be dealt with strictly under the law.
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