Egypt: Death sentences and life terms for 5 accused of attacking church

Egyptians gather at Mary Church during the funeral ceremony of the Mar Mina Church attacks victims in Helwan City, south of Cairo, Egypt on December 29, 2017 [Stringer / Anadolu Agency]

The Cairo Criminal Court yesterday sentenced one man to death and four others to life imprisonment in the case known as “the October Terrorist cell” case.

The court sentenced Mohammed Ibrahim Fathi to death and four others to 25 years.

The ruling can be appealed before the Court of Cassation within 60 days of its issuance.

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In September 2014 the Giza Criminal Court sentenced five defendants – including one in absentia – to death and two others to life imprisonment in the same case.

In March 2016, the Court of Cassation overturned the Giza Criminal Court’s ruling and ordered a retrial.

The defendants are accused of establishing and managing a terrorist group, financing terrorist groups and attacking the Virgin Mary Church on 6 October 2014.

From March 2015 to February 2019, the Egyptian authorities have executed 42 people.

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