Foreign Office issues new Egypt travel warning

Britons are being warned to stay away from the Downtown area of Cairo following an escalation of violence in the Egyptian capital ahead of next week's elections for the People's Assembly.


 


The Foreign Office said urged Britons to avoid Tahrir Square, including the Egyptian Museum and the Downtown area of Cairo, where mass demonstrations have been taking place since last week.


 


Demonstrations have also taken place in Alexandria. Suez and six other cities across Egypt, although the Red Sea resorts remain calm.


 


So far more than 20 people have been killed in violent clashes with the police during and after the demonstrations, mostly in Cairo and one in Alexandria.


 


Several Britons were among those arrested during the demonstrations, said the Foreign Office, and it is warning nationals in Egypt to stay away from crowds and to carry ID at all times.


 


It added: "We strongly advise that British nationals stay away from Tahrir Square, including the Egyptian Museum and the Downtown area of Cairo including Maspero and the Interior Ministry.


 


"The situation is changing rapidly and we recommend that you follow events on local and international news and seek advice from tour operators."


Since the British Embassy is located in Garden City, which is near Tahrir and Downtown Cairo, if Britons in Cairo need to visit the Embassy they should call beforehand on 02 2791 6000 to check security.


 


By Linsey McNeill


 


By Linsey McNeill

Tuesday, November 22, 2011

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