An Alexandria-based human rights group on Wednesday called for an investigation into the "unprecedented violations” perpetrated by police against thousands of protesters who rallied on Tuesday in the Mediterranean city to denounce the ruling regime and voice economic grievances.
The Victims Center for Human Rights in a statement expressed its “full condemnation of the way the police apparatus responded to the peaceful protests that roamed the city yesterday.”
The group cited violations including the use of tear gas, rubber bullets and electric batons. Some of those injured suffered from concussion, choking and bruises, according to the statement.
The group also mentioned one case of a protester who lost their memory during the clashes.
The large demonstrations that erupted in several provinces in response to a call by youth-based opposition groups rocked Egypt on Tuesday.
In an attempt to disperse protesters nationwide, police resorted to violence. At least four people, including a policeman, were killed in clashes in demonstrations that coincided with Egypt's Police Day.
In the city of Alexandria, protesters chanted slogans calling for the departure of President Hosni Mubarak and reportedly tore down some pictures of the president that were hanging in streets. More than 300 Alexandrians were detained, according to the group’s statement.
“The Police Day turned into a sham for police in Alexandria,” said the statement.
According to human rights advocates, the police have been associated with abusive practices in the minds of the vast majority of Egyptians.
Despite deaths and injuries, the opposition called on the people to continue their protests for a second day.
The Victims Center warns that the “excessive use of force” might worsen the situation.
This is the first time Egyptians took to the streets in such large numbers to express political and economic discontent since the 1970s.
In January 1977, Egypt witnessed massive food riots after a government decision to end subsidies. The crowd forced President Anwar Sadat’s regime to reverse its decision.
This time, protests were inspired by the Tunisian uprising that ousted President Zine al-Abidine Ben Ali earlier this month.
