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Iran’s supreme leader replaces police chief amid anti-hijab protests

Iran Anti-Hijab Protests: Khamenei urged Radan to “protect the security of the people and secure public welfare” and improve police “capabilities,” according to a statement.

Published on: Jan 7, 2023, 17:39:50 IST
Bloomberg
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Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei appointed a new police commander, telling him to ensure public security after deadly protests swept the country.

Iran Anti-Hijab Protests: Iranians protest the death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini. (AP)
Iran Anti-Hijab Protests: Iranians protest the death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini. (AP)

Brigadier-General Ahmadreza Radan, formerly head of a police research unit, replaced Hossein Ashtari, who had led the national force for eight years, the state-run Islamic Republic News Agency reported.

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Khamenei urged Radan to “protect the security of the people and secure public welfare” and improve police “capabilities,” according to a statement.

The change follows a crackdown by security forces on nationwide protests that have gripped Iran since Sept. 16, when 22-year-old Mahsa Amini died in police custody following her arrest for wearing allegedly improper clothes under the country’s Islamic law.