Security forces kill 34 and wound more than 300 during prayer

Egyptian security forces killed 34 people yesterday after opening fire on an anti-coup demonstration in Cairo. More than 300 were wounded when the forces used live fire as the protesters were engaged in the dawn prayer.

Eyewitnesses said that they saw snipers stationed on buildings around the Republican Guard building. Soldiers stationed in armoured vehicles were also involved. Ambulances were delayed in reaching the scene as the walking wounded were treated at a field clinic established close to Rabaa Al-Adawiyya Square. A doctor there said that the clinic was short of resources but hadn’t received any help from the Ministry of Health.

Muslim Brotherhood speakers in the square described the attack as a “massacre” committed deliberately against peaceful protesters. According to journalists and activists, including Al Jazeera correspondents, most of those wounded were shot in the head, eyes and chest.

Media reports say that the armed forces are trying to disperse the demonstrators and have placed barricades at the entrances to the square.

Deposed President Mohamed Morsi is believed to be held in the Republican Guard building and protesters have said that they will stay in Rabaa Al-Adawiyya Square until he is released.