Violent clashes erupted in the Smouha area of Alexandria Governorate on Friday evening, as anti-Brotherhood protesters fought with the group’s supporters.
The two sides hurled stones at each other. The state TV website reported that security forces then fired teargas into the crowd to disperse the protesters.
Protesters demonstrating against President Mohamed Morsy’s rule and calling for the return of the military to power had started a march to the local Muslim Brotherhood office from Al-Qaed Ibrahim Mosque after Friday prayers. Dozens of Brotherhood members had been deployed there to protect the building, and began clashing with the protesters when they arrived.
In nearby Sidi Gaber, security forces intensified their presence in anticipation of clashes there.
In addition to demanding Morsy’s removal from office, the opposition protesters demand the dismissal of Prime Minister Hesham Qandil and the sacking of Prosecutor General Talaat Abdallah.
Edited translation from Al-Masry Al-Youm
