Egyptian court sentences 21 to death on terrorism charges

An Egyptian court has sentenced 21 people to death and seven others to up to life in prison over belonging to a group believed to be affiliated with the Islamic State group, the state-run MENA news agency reports.

Beside the 21 death sentences, the court handed down life sentences — which in Egypt are equal to 25 years — to four defendants, and 15-year-sentences to three others, MENA says.

The 28 on trial were charged with belonging to an outlawed group linked to IS, disrupting public order, possession of weapons and endangering society among other charges. Of the total, only 12 are in custody while the others — 16 suspects — are at large.

Rights groups have repeatedly criticized similar mass sentencings in Egypt and called on authorities to ensure fair trials.

— AP