Abdel Halim Matar, arrested and disappeared by Egyptian state security forces

Name:

Abdel Halim El Sayed El Sayed Mukhaiymer Matar

Nationality:

Egyptian

Status:

Detained

Date of arrest:

February 3, 2020

Last updated:

On February 3, 2020, a group of individuals belonging to the State Security Forces entered Abdel Halim Matar’s house by force and arrested him. His fate and whereabouts remained unknown until July 28, 2020 when he was presented for the first time before the State Security Prosecution.

On February 3, 2020, approximately 50 members of the State Security Forces were involved in a raid on Abdel Matar’s home. Some of the individuals were in state security uniform whilst others wore civilian clothes. The State Security Forces had six armoured vehicles and were accompanied by several police cars.

During the raid the perpetrators insulted Matar, arrested him, and destroyed the contents of his home. No arrest warrant was presented and the arrest was witnessed by family members and neighbours.

On February 13, 2020, Matar’s family filed a complaint with the director of the Security Directorate of Basioun, but to no avail.

His fate and whereabouts remained unknown until July 28, 2020, when he was presented for the first time before the State Security Prosecution.

Timeline

July 28, 2020
Matar reappears when he is brought before the State Security Prosecution.
May 4, 2020
MENA Rights Group requests the urgent intervention of the UN Working Group on Enforced or Involuntary Disappearances.
February 13, 2020
Matar’s family file a complaint with the director of the Security Directorate of Basioun, but to no avail.
February 3, 2020
Matar is arrested in his home and disappears.