Clashes, fire erupt at Iran’s Evin Prison: State media

Clashes erupted late on Saturday between inmates and prison personnel at the notorious Evin Prison in the Iranian capital Tehran, leading to a fire at the prison, state news agency IRNA reported, citing an unnamed security official.

The clashes erupted in the section of the prison where “thugs” were kept, IRNA cited the official as saying.

The official also said that fire erupted after prisoners set fire to their clothes which are kept in a warehouse.

“Currently the situation is completely under control and peace is maintained in the prison, and the firemen are extinguishing the fire,” he added.

Videos shared on social media on Saturday showed smoke rising from the prison, where many political prisoners are held. Gunfire as well as anti-government chants could also be heard.