Iranian thief’s hand cut off in front of prisoners

Iranian authorities have amputated the hand of a convicted thief in front of other prisoners in the central city of Yazd.

The state radio report did not identify the 32-year-old convict by name or provide details on his crime.

Iran’s judiciary uses a strict interpretation of Islamic law in handing down such sentences. Cutting off the hands of thieves has been rare in Iran in the past, but Sunday’s amputation was the second this month. And a week ago, a judge ordered the same punishment for a man who stole from a candy shop, though that ruling can still be appealed.

Critics say amputations and public executions and floggings hurt Iran’s image. A death-by-stoning sentence for a woman convicted of adultery has also sparked an international outcry.

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