EGYPT CURFEW REDUCED EXCEPT FRIDAY

Cairo, 20 Dhulhijja 1434/25 October 2013 (MINA) – The Egyptian interim government reduced on Thursday (24/10) the nationwide curfew by one hour except for on Fridays, where it will continue to begin at 7pm.

The decision to reduce the curfew, now from 1am to 5am, was made in accordance to interior ministry security reports, Egypt’s Al-Ahram reported as quoted by Mi’raj News Agency (MINA).

The Friday curfew was not shortened, as the weekend day is popular for peace protests calling for the reinstatement of ousted president Mohamed Morsi, overthrew by the military in July following mass protests against his rule.

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The curfew was first imposed on 14 August after security forces raided two Cairo protest camps set up by Morsi supporters, leaving hundreds dead and sparking days of bloody street violence.

The presidency has justified the measure by saying it was taken in response to “assaults on public and private property as well as killings by extremist groups.”

Meanwhile, Egypt’s North Sinai has witnessed violent confrontations between security forces and militants, with dozens killed on both sides.

Egypt has gradually relaxed the curfew, which was initially set at 7pm. On 19 September, the curfew was pushed from 11pm to 12pm.(T/P03/P04)

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Mi’raj News Agency (MINA)