Accessibility links

Breaking News

Egypt's Christians Continue Protests Against Sectarian Violence


An Egyptian Coptic Christian woman holds a cross as she protests the recent attacks on Christians and churches, in front of the state television building in Cairo, May 9, 2011
An Egyptian Coptic Christian woman holds a cross as she protests the recent attacks on Christians and churches, in front of the state television building in Cairo, May 9, 2011

Coptic Christians demonstrated in Cairo on Monday in protest of Muslim-Christian clashes that left 12 dead over the weekend in sectarian violence.

Some of the protesters gathered outside the headquarters for state-run television where a sit-in began on Sunday.

Demonstrators are demanding that Egypt's Field Marshal Mohamed Hussein Tantawi step down and that the arsonists who burned two Coptic churches be brought to justice.

State media have reported that 12 people were killed and more than 220 wounded during two days of sectarian clashes that began late Saturday in the poverty-stricken Cairo slum of Imbaba. Medical sources said 65 of the injured were shot.

The demonstration came as Egyptian security on Monday detained 23 Egyptians, including two blamed for sparking the riots. Military leaders said Sunday that 190 people detained in connection with the violence will face trial in a military court.

Egypt's civilian leaders have promised a swift response to the clashes including more security at houses of worship and a new ban on demonstrations outside churches and mosques.

Some information for this report was provided by AP, AFP and Reuters.

Follow our Middle East reports on Twitter
and discuss them on our Facebook page.
XS
SM
MD
LG