Egyptian armed forces imposed a security cordon around Port Said’s security office on Wednesday, warning citizens of approaching the premises.

One eyewitness told Aswat Masriya that army forces, in cooperation with the police, removed the tents of protesters near the security office and warned of stepping within 750 meters of the office.

Clashes between protesters and security forces began in Port Said on Sunday upon the interior ministry’s announcement that defendants in a key case will be transferred to a farther location.

Accused of taking part in violent football riots that left over 70 people dead at Port Said Stadium last year, the court will rule in the defendants’ case on Saturday.