News / Middle East

Egyptian PM Suspends Police Accused of Killing Protesters

An Egyptian activist shouts at anti-riot policemen who block the way leading to the journalists syndicate in downtown Cairo, Jan 26 2011
An Egyptian activist shouts at anti-riot policemen who block the way leading to the journalists syndicate in downtown Cairo, Jan 26 2011
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Egyptian Prime Minister Essam Sharaf has ordered the suspension of all police officers accused of killing protesters during the uprising earlier this year that toppled President Hosni Mubarak.

Mr. Sharaf said Saturday he issued direct orders to the interior minister to stop police officers implicated in the killings from working, and to create a panel to speed up cases against them and those accused of corruption.

He spoke as thousands of people gathered in Cairo's Tahrir Square to call for faster reforms and for military rulers to bring those responsible to justice.  

The prime minister vowed to meet the protesters' demands.  Among the key demands are an end to the military trials of civilians and swift trials for former Mubarak government officials.

Mr. Sharaf also said he would create "a mechanism for dialogue with all the political forces" in the country.

At least 850 people were killed during the 18-day revolt in January and February that culminated in Mr. Mubarak's resignation.

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