Photo by Mahmoud Haroun
Clashes broke out on Monday between protesters and security forces around the Mahalla courts complex, as protesters called for the acquittal of eight detained protesters.
The eight protesters were detained on charges of destroying public property and disrupting state order during clashes in Mahalla following the second anniversary of the 25 January Revolution.
The Tanta Prosecution Authority, in the Mahalla governorate, imprisoned the protesters for 15 days for investigations. The detained protesters are accused of damaging the Mahalla governorate building and the Mahalla public library.
Protesters appealed the prosecution’s decision, and the prosecution considered the appeal on Monday. Hundreds of protesters surrounded the court complex, awaiting the prosecution’s decision.
“The court’s administration told us that protesters were transferred to Damanhour prison for security reasons. They added that the appeal will be considered tomorrow [Tuesday],” said Mahmoud Haroun, an activist living in Mahalla.
Haroun said clashes took place after security forces tried to force protesters out of the court area. He claimed that security forces attacked protesters with sticks before clashes broke out. “They attacked us with sticks and we responded with rocks. They fired tear gas bombs extensively and we receded.”
The activist said the protesters’ lawyers, who were present at the time of clashes, called on protesters to refrain from violence and wait until the results of the appeal are announced on Tuesday.
