Iran protesters report deadly police response and forced confessions

Protesters and rights groups report a heavy security crackdown in Iran, including deaths, large-scale detentions and state-broadcast forced confessions amid a widespread internet blackout.

Protests have continued across Iran into a second week while authorities have imposed a broad internet and mobile blackout. Activists and some human rights groups report that security forces used lethal force and that large numbers of people have been detained. State media aired what appeared to be forced confessions by detainees, according to rights organisations. International officials have made public expressions of concern while the government says it is distinguishing between economic protesters and those it calls rioters. Key reported facts: - Communications have been widely cut, limiting independent reporting and documentation. - Activists and a US-based rights group reported that security forces used live ammunition and that at least 65 people were killed and more than 2,300 detained; these figures are reported by those groups. - State media broadcast apparent forced confessions of detainees, which human rights groups say is a documented practice used in prosecutions. - Verification is limited because of the blackout; some material reached outside outlets via satellite connections and rights organisations. Summary: Reports of lethal force, mass detentions and televised forced confessions have accompanied a widespread communications blackout. The situation remains tense with protests ongoing and international expressions of concern. Undetermined at this time.