British travellers to Egypt have been warned to avoid demonstrations due to be staged across the country today (Friday).
The updated Foreign and Commonwealth Office travel advice came amid ongoing protests and clashes within university campuses across Egypt.
Further clashes were reported yesterday as Islamist students protested in an eastern district of the capital where the defence ministry building is located after military chief Abdul Fattah al-Sisi resigned to run for president
He led the overthrow of former president Mohammed Morsi following mass opposition protests as commander-in-chief last July.
The FCO said: “Protests, marches and demonstrations are common across Egypt. Demonstrations often happen on Fridays, but can occur at any time and with little prior notice.
“Following political developments and court judgments in the past week, demonstrations have been called across the country on March 28.
“The atmosphere at demonstrations can change quickly and without warning. Police may use water cannon, tear gas, birdshot or live ammunition for crowd control.
“There have been several violent clashes since July 2013 resulting in a large number of deaths.
“Most of the clashes have taken place in Cairo and Alexandria. At protests in Cairo, Alexandria and Fayoum on 24 and 25 January 2014 there were at reports of around 80 deaths. There are ongoing protests and clashes within university campuses across the country.
“If you become aware of any nearby protests, leave the area immediately. Don’t attempt to cross road blocks erected by the security forces or protesters. Make sure you keep valid photographic identification with you at all times. Take particular care in areas with a history of regular protests.
“At protests on 24 and 25 January westerners, including British Nationals, were singled out and attacked by some protestors.”