Court releases Ultras accused of rioting

Nasr City Court cleared nine members of Ultras Ahlawy, Ahly hardcore fans, who were detained during Ahly and Kima Aswan Egypt Cup game in September. They were accused of rioting, damaging private and public property, attacking police, and burning vehicles. The round 32 Cup match witnessed clashes between the Ultras and police, leading to hundreds of injuries and 17 arrests. This is one of the first cases of its kind. Ahly’s board mediated in the case with a team of lowers, under the guidance of prominent lawyer Mohamed Othman. Nine have been released while the case of the remaining eight will be determined in January. Ultras Ahlawy have denied rioting during the match, saying they only hurled insults against former interior minister Habib El-Adly and ousted president Hosni Mubarak. Both politicians are being tried on charges of killing peaceful protestors during the January 25 Revolution. The involvement of Egyptian football fans – Ultras – in politics this year has been prominent, with many playing a role on the front lines at demonstrations in particular. A number of martyrs have comes from the ranks of the Ultras.