Ahmed Shoman joined Tahrir protests on two occasions, during and after the revolution (Photo: Ahram)
An army officer who joined protesters during Egypt's 18-day uprising and again at demonstrations in November of last year has been sentenced to six years in prison with hard labour for various offences related to breaking military disciplinary codes.
Officer Ahmed Shoman, who was also given a suspension in rank promotion by the military court, was initially arrested following the departure of former president Hosni Mubarak for his involvement in protests in Tahrir Square in the days leading up to the president's ouster.
However, under pressure from demonstrators and activists, the Supreme Council of the Armed Forces (SCAF) pardoned him a few days later. The ruling military council then issued an official statement saying that it would no longer tolerate such acts.
Shoman, however, opted to join protests in Tahrir Square again on 22 November, during the clashes between protesters and Egypt's security forces on Mohamed Mahmoud Street, which saw more than 40 people killed.
The court charged Shoman with several offences, including undisciplined military behaviour, filming videos while wearing military uniform and publishing them via various media, absence from his unit, neglecting to obey military orders and stating political views through satellite channels.
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