A logo on a train reads "Egypt Railways" (Photo: Reuters)
Egypt's railways authority announced a state of emergency on Friday in anticipation of escalating Muslim Brotherhood protests ahead of ousted president Mohamed Morsi's first appearance in court. Morsi's trial is due to begin on 4 November.
Railways authority head Hussein Zakaria stated that a special task force has been formed especially for combating protests or violence inside railway stations. Security has also been increased in trains and stations. However, the train schedules will remain as normal, Zakaria added.
The National Alliance to Support Legitimacy, an Islamist coalition backing Morsi, has vowed to stage daily protests starting on Friday, to culminate with mass mobilisation efforts on Monday when Morsi goes to court.
The ousted president faces several charges, including incitement of murder and violence in the December 2012 presidential palace clashes. The detained leader has refused to recognise the legitimacy of the court trying him.
Morsi was ousted on 3 July amid mass nationwide protests against his rule. Since then, Morsi's supporters, namely the Muslim Brotherhood group from which he hails, have staged regular protests calling for his reinstatement.
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