The Ministry of Interior announced Friday afternoon that 65 alleged “Muslim Brotherhood terrorist elements” were arrested during limited gatherings in a number of provinces during the latest round of Friday protests.
Protesters allegedly tried to cut roads, and later “fired bullets, birdshot and fireworks” at security forces.
In Helwan, a number of protesters were caught with pistols and fireworks, according to the ministry’s statement.
The statement also mentioned that security patrols were ongoing to “enforce security”, warning that “a departure from the law” will be met with repercussions.
Earlier in the day, a police sergeant was killed while attempting to disperse a demonstration.
The statement issued by the ministry said that Ahmed Shalaby Aboul Kheir was shot in the chest near Al-Basatin Police Station and was immediately transferred to a hospital, but died shortly after arrival.
Security forces managed to arrest at least one protester during the dispersal of the protest, which the ministry claimed comprised around 50 people and was called for by the Muslim Brotherhood.
“The Ministry of Interior mourns the heroic martyr who was killed while acting for the nation,” concluded the statement.
Pro-Morsi groups such as the Anti-Coup Alliance often organize marches and demonstrations following Friday prayers. The groups refused to recognise the legitimacy of the interim government that followed Morsi’s ouster, and still refuse to recognise the government of President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi.
