TEHRAN — Iranian authorities have detained more than 660 undocumented migrants in the southeastern city of Zahedan as part of a broad security campaign described as an effort to “enhance social safety,” according to officials.
The operation, carried out over the past week, falls under a larger government initiative known as the “Social Security Promotion Plan,” which Iranian officials say is aimed at combating organized crime and public disorder. The crackdown comes amid growing pressure on migrants, particularly Afghan nationals, who have increasingly faced arrests and deportations in recent months.
Hamid Nouri, Zahedan’s police chief, said on Saturday that the arrests targeted individuals accused of contributing to what he described as criminal and social instability.
In addition to detaining undocumented migrants, Iranian police said they seized 30,000 liters of smuggled fuel, 57 kilograms of opium, 149 psychoactive pills, 11 military-grade weapons, four hunting rifles, and several stolen vehicles. Authorities reported a total of more than 1,200 arrests on various charges, including 455 individuals identified as drug users, 53 small-scale drug dealers, and 103 theft suspects.
Zahedan, the capital of Sistan and Baluchestan Province, is one of Iran’s most security-sensitive regions. Bordering both Afghanistan and Pakistan, it is a major transit point for migrants as well as a hub for illicit trafficking of goods and narcotics.
Human rights organizations and international observers have repeatedly raised concerns about the treatment of undocumented migrants in Iran — particularly Afghans, many of whom fled to the country to escape war, poverty, and political instability. Advocacy groups warn that many detainees face uncertain legal processes and harsh detention conditions.
Iranian officials maintain that the recent operations are necessary to safeguard national security and address organized crime. Still, rights groups have criticized what they describe as sweeping and punitive actions against vulnerable populations.
