UN expresses concern over fresh clampdown

The UN human rights office has voiced concern over a recent wave of arrests of activists and bloggers in Egypt. A report on the News24 site notes that spokesperson Ravina Shamdasani said the arrests indicate a ‘significant escalation in the crackdown against the rights to freedom of expression, association and assembly’. The suspects face an array of charges, including disseminating false news and belonging to an outlawed group.