Basij Members Are Now Allowed to Carry Weapons
Sirous Fathi (Fat’hi), commander of the discipline center of the law enforcement announced that three groups are allowed to carry weapons: “First the Basij members (IRGC civilian force) who have been thoroughly trained by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, the second group is the retired military personnel who were allowed to carry weapons during service, and the third group is the armed forces, especially law enforcement personnel who moonlight in security firms in their free time.”
He did not explain the reasons behind choosing these groups but emphasized that they should all go through necessary training. According to Fathi, after their mental health has been confirmed, they will be allowed to carry weapons.
In recent years, the number of accidents caused by the use of firearms by Basij members has caused concerns among the population.
Also, a large portion of Basij consists of 12 to 18 year-old teenagers, and the consequences of this decision on them is unclear.
Many are concerned that carrying weapon by these groups who are already considered above the law will lead to even more illegal acts by them.