TORONTO – Two Canadians detained in Egypt since August have been released from prison according to a statement issued Saturday night by Lynne Yelich, Minister of State (Foreign Affairs and Consular).
Tarek Loubani, an emergency doctor, and John Greyson, a Toronto-based filmmaker, have spent the last 50 days in prison since they were arrested amid violent clashes between Egyptian military forces and protesters loyal to ousted president Mohammed Morsi.
The pair said they were headed to Gaza, via Egypt, where Greyson planned to shoot a documentary about Loubani’s volunteer work at the Al-Shifa Hospital.
READ MORE: Who are John Greyson and Tarek Loubani?
They were unable to cross into the Palestinian territory because the border with Egypt was closed. While staying in Cairo they decided to check out the protests held in response to the military coup that toppled Morsi’s government.
They said they left the scene of the protests, in Cairo’s Ramses Square, when they felt it would be safe to go back to their hotel. They asked police for help finding their way to the hotel, but were arrested.’
The full statement from Lynne Yelich on their release is below.
“Canada welcomes the decision to release Tarek Loubani and John Greyson.
“I look forward to Dr. Loubani and Mr. Greyson being reunited with their families and friends, who have shown tremendous strength during this difficult time.
“Minister Baird and I were in contact with senior Egyptian officials on numerous occasions concerning this case, and the Embassy of Canada to Egypt worked tirelessly to secure their release.
“We are facilitating Dr. Loubani and Mr. Greyson’s departure from Egypt, and Canadian officials will continue to offer consular services to them and their families as needed.
“I wish to express our appreciation to the Egyptian authorities for providing consistent consular access.”
-With files from Nick Logan
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