According to a statement from the Organization’s Public Relations Office, Colonel Hamidreza Mohammadshahi, Commander of the Protection Unit, announced the reduction during the fourth inter-agency briefing for law enforcement and executive officials. He credited the drop to the launch of a public SMS reporting system—code 300041735—designed to improve situational awareness and encourage public participation. The system was introduced in 2024.

“This initiative has significantly strengthened our oversight capabilities and helped reduce unauthorized land seizures compared to previous years,” Mohammadshahi said.

The Protection Unit currently operates in 35 provincial offices of the Ministry of Roads and Urban Development and carries out specific law enforcement duties in accordance with Article 690 of the Islamic Penal Code. Backed by the Office of the Attorney General, its officers are designated as special judicial agents with powers to act on land-related offenses.

Colonel Mohammadshahi added that all personnel undergo specialized training and receive official credentials before deployment. He emphasized the importance of ongoing education, stating that staff participate in regular training sessions, both online and in person.

The Land Protection Unit was established in September 2015 following approval by the Armed Forces General Staff and at the request of the Ministry of Roads and Urban Development. It operates under the broader law enforcement structure with the mission of safeguarding public land and state property.