An Egyptian court is set to resume the trial of Sid Mashagb, a well-known figure in the Ultras Zamalek fan group, and five others on charges of rioting and possessing fireworks in the Giza district of Bolak Al-Dakrour. The trial, which begins on September 22, 2026, follows a series of events that took place on April 16, 2026, when a group of individuals gathered in the area to celebrate Mashagb's release from prison. The celebrations, however, quickly turned into chaos as the group began to riot, set off fireworks, and disrupt traffic.
According to the investigation, the group, estimated to be over 100 people, had gathered in the area to celebrate Mashagb's release from prison. During the gathering, they chanted slogans and set off fireworks, causing a disturbance and disrupting traffic. The police were quickly deployed to the scene, and six individuals, including Mashagb, were arrested and found to be in possession of fireworks and other materials.
Sid Mashagb, whose real name is not publicly known, has a long history of involvement in violent incidents and has been charged with 13 different crimes since March 2015. Two of these cases were brought before the military court, and the charges against him range from murder and attempted murder to arson and establishing a terrorist organization. Mashagb was released from prison in April 2026 after serving time for his previous offenses.
The prosecution's evidence includes testimony from several witnesses, including the head of the investigative unit of the Bolak Al-Dakrour police station. The witness stated that the group's actions caused a disturbance, disrupted traffic, and caused fear among citizens. The police investigation also revealed that the purpose of the gathering was not only to celebrate Mashagb's release but also to show off their strength and dominance in the area.
The case has garnered significant attention due to Mashagb's high-profile status as a leader in the Ultras Zamalek fan group, a group known for their extreme behavior and clashes with law enforcement. The group's activities have been closely monitored by the authorities, who have taken steps to curb their violent behavior. The trial is expected to shed more light on the circumstances surrounding the events of April 16 and the role played by Mashagb and the others.
The court had previously extended the detention of Mashagb and the five others for 45 days while investigations continued. The case is a significant test of the Egyptian authorities' efforts to maintain law and order and to hold accountable those who engage in violent behavior. The trial's outcome is expected to have implications for the Ultras Zamalek fan group and their activities in the future.
The authorities have been working to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future, and the trial is seen as a key step in this effort. The case highlights the challenges faced by the Egyptian authorities in dealing with violent fan groups and the need for effective measures to prevent such incidents from happening.
Key points
- Sid Mashagb and five others are to face trial on charges of rioting and possessing fireworks in the Giza district of Bolak Al-Dakrour.
- The trial follows a series of violent incidents that took place on April 16, 2026, when a group of individuals gathered to celebrate Mashagb's release from prison.
- Mashagb has a long history of involvement in violent incidents and has been charged with 13 different crimes since March 2015.
