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The first trial of people allegedly involved in post-election violence in Iran has begun, Iranian media said.

The defendants included leading members of the opposition movement, including a former vice-president.

The state news agency said the charges included rioting, vandalism and "acting against national security".

Between 30 and 100 people were on trial. Authorities arrested hundreds in the aftermath of the disputed 12 June presidential election.

News agency Irna said other charges included "having ties with counter-revolutionary groups."

Some of those on trial had been photographed "committing the crimes," and their accomplices were "on the run," Irna reported.

Fars news agency reported that prominent reformers such as former vice president Mohammad Ali Abtahi, former deputy foreign minister Mohsen Aminzadeh, former government spokesman Abdollah Ramazanzadeh, former senior lawmaker Mohsen Mirdamadi and former Industry Minister Behzad Nabavi were on trial.

The protests were the largest mass demonstrations seen in Iran since the 1979 revolution which brought the current Islamic regime to power.

In the days of violence following the re-election of President Mahmoud Ahmedinejad at least 30 people were killed.

About 140 people arrested at the time were released from prison on Tuesday, with a further 200 accused of more seri... >>>