Protests over the death of activist Mohamed El Gendy, reportedly tortured to death by police, have sparked anger among protesters leading to violent clashes in Tanta on Monday.
Some protesters attempted to storm the Tanta Police Station and the Gharbiya Security Directorate on Monday evening. Twenty-six people were injured, according to state-owned Al-Ahram. Security forces have detained nine protesters, allegedly paid thugs.
Hundreds took part in the funeral prayers for El Gendy on Monday afternoon in Tahrir Square. The family then transported El Gendy’s body to Tanta for burial. Protesters in Tanta went to Gharbeya Governorate building to demand the identification of the police soldiers who detained El Gendy.
Protesters chanted slogans against the police and the government, according to eyewitnesses. Clashes began at around 5 pm, said Moqawma Movement activist Islam Molda, when the police started firing tear gas to disperse the crowds.
Angry protesters threw Molotov cocktails at the Tanta police station, causing clashes with police forces. Clashes continued until Monday evening.
The deputy spokesperson for the Health Ministry stated that of the 26 injured, 10 were policemen. The spokesperson said that there were no deaths. Five people are being treated at Tanta University hospital. Al-Ahram reported that a protester hit in the eye by a rubber bullet was among the injured.
Activist Molda said the clashes lasted for seven hours and a security truck was burnt by protesters. He claimed that internationally-prohibited gas bombs were used during clashes.
Twenty-eight year old Mohamed El-Gendy was a member of the Popular Current and a founding member of the Al-Dostour Party.
El-Gendy’s alleged torture was reported by several human rights organisations. He was found unconscious at Al Helal Hospital in downtown Cairo on Thursday and died early on Monday.
