Rewritten Title: Tehran Authorities Apprehend Suspect in Series of Disturbing Incidents
Article:
A Deceptive Lure in the Capital
A 17-year-old boy recently walked into a police station in western Tehran, reporting that he had fallen victim to a deceptive and dangerous scheme. The teenager explained that while on his way to class, he accepted a ride from a man who struck up a conversation. The driver claimed a friend owned a well-known shop and was looking to hire teenage staff, offering attractive pay and conditions. Tempted by the offer, the boy agreed. The man then offered him a juice box, after consuming which the victim lost consciousness. He later awoke on the side of the road, realizing he had been assaulted.
A Pattern of Predation Emerges
Following this initial complaint, a case was opened and judicial authorities, under the supervision of Investigator Gholamhossein Sadeghzadeh from the 7th branch of the Tehran Criminal Court, launched an immediate investigation. Police from the 16th District of Tehran Criminal Investigations Department soon discovered they were dealing with a serial pattern, as several other teenage boys came forward with nearly identical stories of being deceived and assaulted using the same method. Through specialized investigative work, authorities successfully identified a suspect.
Suspect in Custody as Investigation Widens
The suspect, a 45-year-old man, was promptly apprehended. To date, nine teenage boys have filed formal complaints against him, and the investigation remains active to ensure a comprehensive and just legal process. During interrogations, the suspect reportedly cited personal and financial turmoil as a backdrop to his actions, though he explicitly stated this did not justify his crimes.
A Narrative of Personal Crisis
The accused claimed to have been a construction worker who faced bankruptcy after his business partnership with his brother dissolved and material costs rose. He described falling into a deep depression following these financial difficulties. He alleged that the idea for his criminal method came after hearing a story from a friend about a similar act of deception involving a spiked drink, though initially conceived for theft. The suspect repeatedly referred to himself as being “ill” and expressed remorse for his actions, stating he could not justify his behavior. He also claimed to have only one prior criminal record, which he said was dismissed.
Legal Process Underway
The case highlights the vigilance of Tehran’s law enforcement and judicial system in responding to criminal complaints and protecting citizens. The investigation continues as authorities work to bring this case to a conclusive resolution through the proper legal channels.