Alarming trend of crimes committed by Iranian police and militia
In recent months the Iranian media and Police have disclosed a large number of crimes committed by active duty members of the police or militia (Basij). For example, in Tabriz and Tehran, there were reports of gang rape or murder by the members of Basij (pro-government militia) of young women arrested for not observing Islamic dress code (Hijab). In the Northeastern city of Mashhad, home to a holy shrine, a band of police officers were arrested for stealing vehicles while on patrol.
The arrest of police and Basij members guilty of crimes, and the media coverage of such arrests are applauded by some analysts. The extent of the problem, however, and the degree of collusion among perpetrators - in many cases working as a band - could be indications that corruption is deeply rooted in Iran's military forces. Some crimes are also committed in broad daylight and in a brazen manner.
Since last year's contested election in Iran, the government has heavily deployed and armed police, militia and intelligence forces to crack down on the "Green" reform movement.
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