Two killed in clashes in Port Said

Egyptians clean the streets from stones as the army takes over control of the state security building after several days of clashes between protesters and riot police in Port Said on Friday.

Two people were killed in clashes between anti-government protesters and police in the Egyptian city of Port Said, reported state television on Friday, citing local health authorities.

Both died of gunshot wounds in the head as 141 others were wounded in overnight violence, added the report.

The army on Friday replaced police in guarding the Suez Canal city’s security headquarters where bloody clashes have raged in the last few days, said the broadcaster.

Port Said has been gripped by violence for more than a month amid a general strike called to protest the Islamist-backed government’s policy.

A court is expected on Saturday to hand down rulings for 52 defendants charged with involvement in last year’s riot in Port Said stadium, which left 74 dead.

In January, a court sentenced 21 local people to death in the case. The ruling sparked clashes in the city, leaving some 40 people dead.