Calls confrontations between anti- and pro-government forces a “fatal error”
Egypt’s prime minister, Ahmed Shafiq, has apologized for the violence that erupted in Cairo on Wednesday between pro- and anti-government protesters. At least 5 people were killed and over 800 injured when pro-Mubarak demonstrators confronted peaceful protestors in Tahrir square and began throwing stones, debris and petrol bombs. Shafiq promised he would investigate the violence. “When investigations reveal who is behind the crime and who allowed it to happen,” said Shafiq, “I promise they will be held accountable and will be punished for what they did.” Anti-government protesters claim they have detained 120 people with ID cards showing their affiliation with government or security forces. On Thursday morning, the army began separating the two sides with armoured vehicles, and in one case, a tank reportedly turned its turret towards the pro-Mubarak side. Foreign journalists have been attacked by the pro-government mobs, while vigilante groups and looters are roaming the streets unhindered. Over the past 10 days of unrest in Egypt, according to the UN, about 300 people have been killed.