As part of the Egyptian regime’s targeting of freedom of expression, Egyptian authorities arrested prominent economist Abdelkhaleq Farouk, 67, from his home on Sunday evening, his wife, Naglaa Salama, said on her “Facebook” page.
In addition to their laptops and two cell phones, Farouk’s wife confirmed that security personnel searched their home and took drafts of his books. She also expressed concern about her husband’s health satiation as he “was unable to take his medication, which could put his health at risk.”
Farouk’s arrest was probably brought on by recent articles he posted on his personal “Facebook” page, the majority of which were critical of Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi.
Farouk was taken into custody by National Security forces on Sunday at 11 p.m. local time. His family and attorney are currently attempting to ascertain where he is being held.
The arrest takes place in the midst of a broad campaign against activists and opponents in Alexandria, which is thought to be related to the growing concern over the Sisi regime’s growing opposition after a string of harsh economic decisions and measures, the most recent of which was the third increase in fuel prices in less than a year.
The economic expert was first detained by security authorities on October 21, 2018, over his book titled “Is Egypt Really a Poor Country?” He was taken to the police station in Shorouk City, which is east of Cairo, and was later released on October 29.
Farouk’s arrest and enforced disappearance highlight the dangers Egyptians face when they share information and voice their opinions, as well as the risk of escalation used by some regimes to silence critical voices. The international community and human rights organizations must pay attention to these cases and bring attention to the violations that occur to Egyptians.
