Police in southeastern Iran have rescued a man who had been held captive for 20 days and arrested seven suspected kidnappers in the city of Iranshahr.

Police officers identified the suspects' hideout through operational investigative measures and carried out a coordinated operation to arrest all seven individuals. The hostage was freed unharmed, according to Tasnim news agency.

Investigators said the kidnapping was motivated by extortion.

During a search of the suspects' hideout, police reportedly seized a Kalashnikov assault rifle, 70 rounds of ammunition, four magazines, two vehicles and gold valued at approximately $13,100.