Journalist Ahmed Abu-Deraa (Photo: Al-Ahram)
Egyptian Sinai-based journalist Ahmed Abu-Deraa was released on Saturday afternoon after paying a 200 EGP bail.
Earlier on Saturday, Ismailia military court sentenced Abu Deraa to six months in prison, which would be suspended upon paying the bail.
Abu-Deraa was arrested on 5 September 2013 and accused of publishing false news and rumours about military operations against militants in north Sinai, in addition to taking photographs in areas prohibited to civilians and being present in a prohibited military area.
He is an award-winning journalist who reports from northern Sinai for leading private daily Al-Masry Al-Youm and private satellite channel OnTV, in addition to other media outlets.
There has been controversy surrounding the trial of civilians in military courts. Activists have called for amendments to the constitution to prohibit the practice.
Egypt's suspended 2012 constitution is currently being revised by a 50-member committee before being put to a national referendum.
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