Renewal of Detention for Journalist Sayed Saber for 45 Days over a Social Media Post
On Tuesday, May 20, 2025, the Cairo Criminal Court, convened at the Badr Courts Complex, ordered the renewal of the pretrial detention of journalist Sayed Saber for a further 45 days pending investigations in Case No. 6499 of 2024.
A lawyer from the Egyptian Center for Economic and Social Rights (ECESR) attended the detention renewal hearing and requested Saber’s release and access to adequate medical care. Saber had undergone open-heart surgery on April 25, 2025, and was subsequently transferred to the prison medical center before being returned to his cell at Al-Shorouk Prison in 10th of Ramadan City.
It is worth noting that on February 21, 2025, Sayed Saber known for his satirical journalism، was absent from his family’s traditional birthday celebration. This time, there was no celebration; only silence in his absence. His laughter and signature stories were missed, while the family spoke only of their hopes for his release.
Saber, whose sharp commentary and storytelling have long engaged his readers, was arrested by security forces at his home on the evening of November 27, 2024. He was subjected to enforced disappearance and held incommunicado before appearing before prosecutors for interrogation over a Facebook post.
The Supreme State Security Prosecution charged him with joining a terrorist organization, spreading false news, and misusing social media platforms. On March 2, 2025, his detention was renewed for the seventh time—despite his worsening health condition. He has undergone two cardiac surgeries and suffers from chronic illnesses.
Sayed Saber holds a Bachelor’s degree in Social Sciences and another in Journalism and Mass Communication from Cairo University. He has contributed to various Egyptian and Arab media outlets. His published works include several short story collections such as “Ghalia,” “Bo’ Bo’,” “The Pasta Farm,” and “Soti and the General,” as well as a collection of essays titled “Nonsense-Free.”
