Qazvin after two nights of unrest: From anti-security violence to public support and restored calm

Pars Today – Qazvin Province (west of Tehran) has returned to calm following recent violent incidents that led to the death of a security officer and several other casualties in Alvand city, thanks to widespread public presence and cooperation with law enforcement.

The events on the nights of January 8 and 9 in some cities of Qazvin Province involved violent and organized actions by rioters, including the killing of security officer Afshin Haqshenas, destruction of public property, and creating fear among citizens. In response, the extensive involvement of the public and the emphasis of religious and security authorities on maintaining order helped bring the situation under control.

This report by Pars Today reviews the developments in Qazvin over the past days.

Security officer killed in Qazvin

During Thursday night’s unrest, Afshin Haqshenas, a member of Iran’s security forces, was brutally martyred. According to the Qazvin Friday Prayers Leader, Haqshenas was surrounded by hired terrorists and attacked with severe blows and bladed weapons. There were even attempts to burn his body, which were thwarted by the intervention of local citizens. This incident sparked widespread reactions across the province.

Public mobilization and call for calm in Qazvin

Ayatollah Hossein Mozaffari, the Leader’s representative in Qazvin Province, called on citizens to gather in mosques and main streets and emphasized support for security forces. Following this appeal, residents of Qazvin, Alvand, Mohammadiyeh, Abyek, and Takestan held nightly marches after Maghrib and Isha prayers, condemning the violence and expressing their support for stability and public security.

Five killed by terrorists in Alvand amid clashes

In Alvand city, five people lost their lives during the clashes, all reportedly martyred by bladed weapons. Local sources assess this incident as part of the rioters’ efforts to escalate insecurity and social unrest.

Despite damage to public property, mosques, and government buildings in some areas, field reports indicate that on the evening of January 10, cities across Qazvin Province remained calm due to public vigilance and the presence of security forces. Calls for unrest were widely ignored by the population.