Authorities in Iran say 4,000 people were detained in protests that followed June’s disputed presidential election – many more than previously stated. A spokesman for the judiciary, Ali Reza Jamshidi, said about 3,700 were freed within a week, but that those involved in riots were kept in detention.
An opposition figure has also claimed at least 69 people were killed in the violence following the 12 June poll.
It is more than double the number the government admits died. Iran is currently trying more than 100 detainees over their alleged involvement in the protests.
The trials – of leading opposition figures, activists, journalists, lawyers, workers at foreign embassies and a foreign national – have been criticised by several foreign powers, opposition groups and human rights campaigners.
But authorities insist their legal proceedings are completely legitimate and conform to international standards of justice.
Speaking at a news conference, judiciary spokesman Mr Jamshidi admitted some 4,000 people were detained in June’s post-election street protests.
