An Egyptian court has convicted seven people of taking part in an illegal street protest and plotting a terror "crime," sentencing each to eight years in prison.
The seven were arrested April 27, two days after a series of street protests against the government's decision to surrender to Saudi Arabia control over two Red Sea islands as part of a border demarcation deal.
Today's verdict also slapped about USD 50 fine on each of the seven defendants, who come from Kerdasa, an Islamist stronghold in greater Cairo. They were also accused of spreading rumors and incitement.
A 2013 law has effectively banned demonstrations in Egypt. Media reports this week suggested lawmakers may amend the law to remove provisions for imprisonment.
