Canadian Peace Marchers Trapped in Cairo

Jan 2, 2010

Canadian Peace Marchers Trapped in Cairo

This post has not been approved by Media Co-op editors!

On December 31, near the Egyptian Museum in downtown Cairo, Egyptian police and security forces violently attacked a peaceful march, which included 50 Canadians, and have currently trapped many participants. The marchers intended to go from Cairo to Gaza to break the blockade of Gaza.

Police are confiscating cameras, refusing water, trapping protestors, beatings have occurred. Police assaulting and arresting Egyptian participants. Police have physically assaulted women participants including foreigners. People currently trapped near museum are being refused water in hot sun, cannot leave, injuries reported, no food or toilet.

The Canadian government, via its Cairo Embassy, has said it will not provide assistance or protection to the marchers. No Canadian media are present.

The Canadians are part of the Gaza Freedom March brings over 1300 people from more than 43 countries to join Palestinians of Gaza in a non-violent mass march to the Israeli border.

Contact:
Sandra Ruch (Canada):  647-342-0059, 416-716-4010
David Heap (Cairo) 011 20 0191922671