Witnesses in Iran say police, Revolutionary Guard deployed to stop any opposition protests
By APSunday, December 27, 2009
Witnesses: Iran’s police deployed to stop protests
TEHRAN, Iran — Thousands of Iranian riot police and Revolutionary Guard members armed with tear gas and batons have been deployed in central Tehran to prevent anticipated demonstrations by opposition supporters.
The large security operation comes after authorities warned of a harsh crackdown should opposition supporters hold rallies coinciding with religious observances marking the 7th Century death in battle of one of Shiite Islam’s most beloved saints.
Witnesses say thousands of people are walking peacefully toward Imam Hossein Square in the capital, where the opposition had promised to start rallies.
Journalists working for foreign media organizations are banned from covering opposition protests.
