A group of protesters ensured the safe getaway of a number of policemen in a riot police truck who were encircled by demonstrators amid violent clashes.

 

The commanding officer of the unit fled the scene when the vehicle was stopped by protesters, leaving the police inside at the mercy of the crowd at Talaat Harb in the centre of downtown Cairo. But these demonstrators wanted to ensure the police were able to leave safely, despite the violence just a few minutes away at the interior ministry, where security forces were firing at protesters with tear gas. 

 

A line of protesters formed a cordon around the vehicle to make sure no one could enter until two ambulances arrived to take the police away safely and unharmed.

 

At the Interior Ministry meanwhile, police continue to fight with demonstrators who are protesting the conduct of security forces during a football match in Port Said. Protesters hold the authorities responsible for rioting there that resulted in the deaths of over 70 fans on Wednesday night (February 1st).