Egyptian officials announced on May 15 the conviction and prison sentences of over one hundred demonstrators who were peacefully assembling without a permit. Fifty one individuals were sentenced [7] to two years in prison while another hundred and one individuals were sentenced to five years in prison. The sentences were handed down in connection with the April demonstrations [8] to protest Red Sea islands [9] being turned over to Saudia Arabia. Many believed the islands were apart of an economic deal [10], and opposed against the government decision, leading to the charges of joining terrorist groups and disturbing the peace. The demonstrations were broken up by police officers who used tear-gas. The courts are permitting the convicted to appeal [11], as there is a dispute about the evidence and a claim that innocent bystanders were arrested in the disturbance.
From Jurist [12], May 15. Used with permission.
