Egypt’s public prosecutor Saturday ordered the release of 25 die-hard football fans who have been in detention for almost a month.
The detained Ultras Ahlawy members were arrested 13 October after clashes erupted between security and Ultras Ahlawy at Cairo International Airport when fans went to receive Ahly Club’s handball team upon its return from Tunisia, after losing in the African Cup final.
According to an airport security official, 11 police personnel and two workers were injured in the violence. Security forces dispersed the crowd with teargas and chased the Ultras from the airport to the outskirts of the nearby Nasr City district.
On 26 October, the arrested fans were slammed with 15 days detention pending investigations.
Since their detention, thousands of Ultras Ahlawy fans have staged demonstrations demanding the release of their comrades.
The Ultras played a leading role in the 25 January 2011 uprising that toppled longtime autocratic leader Hosni Mubarak and have been known since for their political activism. They have frequently clashed with police during demonstrations and football matches, with many members arrested, injured and killed in recent years.
The existing grudge in the relationship between the Ultras and security forces increased significantly after the Port Said Stadium massacre in February 2012, which left 74 dead. Fans hold authorities responsible for the incident.