Location: Kazan, Russia
Incident Overview
Iran has lodged an official protest with Moscow over the “violent” arrest of two Iranian students at Kazan Federal University in the Russian city of Kazan. The students were detained after a reported altercation at a visa extension center.
Details of the Arrest
According to Iran’s state news agency IRNA, the students were subjected to “inhumane and unprofessional beatings” by the Russian police before their arrest on Friday. Iran’s consulate in Kazan issued a statement condemning the treatment, which led to the submission of a formal protest note to the Russian Foreign Ministry.
Iran’s Response and Request for Explanations
In response to the incident, Iran has requested a full explanation from Russia regarding the treatment of the students. Following intervention by the Iranian consulate, the two students were released late on Friday.
Kazan Police Statement
The Kazan police press service provided a different account of the events, stating that the students had become involved in a physical conflict, and officers detained those who were involved in instigating the fight. The police did not specify the nationality of those arrested.
Investigation and Diplomatic Follow-up
The regional Investigative Committee in Kazan confirmed the arrest of two foreign nationals for allegedly using violence against authorities. Iran’s top diplomat, Abbas Araghchi, has reportedly followed up on the incident multiple times, and Tehran’s ambassador to Moscow, Kazem Jalali, condemned the mistreatment of Iranian students, urging that those responsible be held accountable.
