Pretrial Detention Exceeds Legal Limit: Cairo Criminal Court Renews Detention of “Ultras White Knights” Member Ahmed Bahar for 45 Days in Case No. 65/2021 (State Security)

On Monday, May 26, 2025, the Cairo Criminal Court, convened in the detention renewal chamber at the Badr Judicial Complex, ordered the renewal of the pretrial detention of Ahmed Hisham Shaheen, known by the nickname “Bahar,” for an additional 45 days pending investigations in Case No. 65 of 2021 (State Security Prosecution Register).

The Supreme State Security Prosecution has charged Bahar with joining a banned organization, disseminating false news and information, and misusing social media platforms.

Bahar is a member of the Ultras White Knights, a supporter group of Zamalek Sporting Club. He has been held in pretrial detention since July 2020. He was initially investigated in connection with Case No. 751 of 2020. Although a release order was issued in February 2021, it was never implemented. Subsequently, he was questioned in connection with Case No. 65 of 2021, and his detention continues to be renewed under that case.

Bahar’s pretrial detention has exceeded twice the maximum period permitted under Egyptian law. During his prolonged incarceration, his father passed away, and his ailing mother continues to appeal for his release.

It is worth noting that most defendants in Case No. 65 of 2021 have since been released, with the exception of Bahar and a few others, amid ongoing calls by rights groups and family members for their release.