Iran publicly hangs the murderer of Friday prayer imam

Iran publically executed a man convicted of murdering prayer leader on Wednesday, agencies have reported.

The man was hanged at the site the murder took place on 29 May in the southern city of Kazeroun, state news agency IRNA said, citing chief justice of Fars province, Kazem Mousavi.

Mohammed Khorsand was died after being attacked with a "cold weapon" while returning from a ceremony during Ramadan, the Muslim holy month of fasting.

The cleric had been the leader of Friday prayers in Kazeroun, the capital of Fars province, since 2007.

Derakhshandeh stood trial and "confessed to the premeditated crime in the presence of judicial authorities", Mousavi was quoted as saying.

The Supreme Court carried out the execution after the cleric's family decided not to spare the life of the killer who refused to express regret, Fars news agency reported.

"Due to the sensitivity of the case and the public sentiments in this regard, efforts were made for the case to be investigated promptly," Mousavi said.

Imams who lead Friday prayers in Iran are appointed by Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.