Protests in the South Sinai Governorate city of Rafah continued on Thursday for the third day in a row after pro-government tribesmen failed to convince protesters to temporarily halt protests while authorities pondered whether to charge their detained relatives.
Bedouins accused police with detaining them, confiscating their vehicle licenses and damaging their houses and properties. Police accuse bedouins of involvement in smuggling operations which take place via borders.
Protesters assured they will rally until their demands are met. Tribe sources told Al-Masry Al-Youm that protesters plan to stage larger demonstrations on Friday in the governorate’s other cities.
Eyewitnesses reported high casualties amid clashes between protesters and security forces.
Protesters from South Sinai call for the immediate release of their relatives, estimated to number around 420.
Elsewhere in Mahalla, north of Cairo, police arrested seven activists after surrounding them outside a Democratic Front Party building.
Some activists said the arrested include five party members.
A number of protesters threatened to demonstrate in front of the Tanta Court to demand the release of demonstrators arrested during Tuesday's protests. But security authorities managed to frustrate their attempts, and the city has calmed down after being occupied with security forces with armored vehicles.
Police forces filled the Mahalla textile company premises, al-Shouan Square, and al-Bandar Square, where there have been large rallies.
Meanwhile, a number of activists accused security authorities of relying on thugs to prevent them from protesting.
