Cult leader posing as Jesus Christ detained in Iran

Law enforcement authorities in Iran’s Yazd province have detained a man who founded a religious sect and presented himself as Jesus Christ, according to the Mehr news agency.

The leader of the sect initially claimed to have been chosen by God and later declared his own divinity, referring to Jesus Christ. By promoting superstition, he imposed unusual ascetic practices and exploited his followers for personal gain, the reports added.

Authorities also said that members of the sect burned the Quran, desecrated sacred sites, insulted religious figures, and recited prayers for Israel’s victory over Iran.

During the operation, three individuals who played key roles in the cult’s activities were detained.

By Jeyhun Aghazada