Authorities closed the Egyptian Museum on Saturday after at least two demonstrators were killed when the military dispersed a peaceful sit-in in Tahrir Square. The demonstrators were demanding the prosecution of ousted president Hosni Mubarak and other figures from the toppled regime.
Egyptian Minister for Antiquities Zahi Hawass said in a statement that the museum, located in Tahrir, was closed due to “the events that have been taking place in Tahrir Square and the area surrounding the museum, as a precaution to secure the museum and visitors."
The statement quoted Tariq Al-Awadi, director of the museum, as saying its re-opening will be coordinated with the Armed Forces, adding that the building has not been affected.
On Saturday, demonstrators hurled stones at troops stationed near the museum, which is widely believed to contain chambers for the military police.
Local and international rights groups have reported that scores of protesters were tortured inside the museum during and after Egypt’s 18-day revolt, which toppled Mubarak on 11 February. Egypt’s military rulers pledged to investigate any abuses that might have taken place inside the museum. Members of the Armed Forces have been accused of torturing protesters there on 9 March.
