Tehran: The Ministry of Intelligence has announced the arrest of 17 individuals identified as mercenaries allegedly linked to US-Israeli interests in western Iran. These arrests follow extensive surveillance operations and public tip-offs that culminated in the detention of the suspects in Ilam province.

According to Islamic Republic News Agency, the detained individuals include three primary field leaders who were reportedly orchestrating a street sabotage network with ties to foreign adversaries. These leaders are accused of participating in various activities aimed at undermining public security, such as the destruction and arson of public property, armed assaults, and the dissemination of fear and insecurity among the populace through symbolic actions.

The ministry's statement also revealed that a search of the detained leaders uncovered significant weaponry. Among the items seized were three blocks of TNT, a Kalashnikov rifle, a grenade, and numerous cold weapons including machetes, suggesting the group was equipped for substantial violent activities.

Furthermore, an additional 14 members of this alleged sabotage network were identified and detained, indicating a broad operation aimed at countering what the ministry described as an enemy-linked effort to destabilize the region.