Heavy police deployment in squares, parks for Sham El-Nessim

CAIRO – 13 April 2026: Police forces were deployed across Egypt's streets early Monday morning in various formations to secure citizens' celebrations of the Sham El Nessim spring festival.

These deployments come as part of a comprehensive security plan developed by the Ministry of Interior to ensure celebrations proceed peacefully and to prevent any attempts to break the law or disrupt the festive atmosphere.

In Cairo and Giza, major squares, including Tahrir, Ramses, and Giza Square, witnessed a significant security presence, featuring mounted patrols and plainclothes officers. Rapid intervention units were also mobilized for immediate response to any incidents.

Beyond public squares, security measures extended to the areas surrounding places of worship, vital installations, and shopping centers, all of which expect a large influx of families throughout the day.

Public parks and green spaces received the primary focus of the security plan. Forces intensified their presence around the Giza Zoo, the Orman Botanical Garden, and along the Nile Corniche, which remain prime destinations for revelers.

Furthermore, female police officers were deployed in public gathering places to address potential harassment and ensure a safe environment for women and girls.

To manage the holiday traffic, tow trucks and relief vehicles were stationed on highways and main roads, particularly those leading to coastal governorates like Alexandria and Ain Sokhna. Security operations rooms were also activated to monitor the situation in real time via widespread surveillance camera networks.