Singapore strongly condemns twin church attacks in Egypt, no Singaporeans affected

Relatives of victims reacting to coffins arriving at the Coptic church that was bombed on Sunday, April 9, 2017, in Tanta, Egypt. PHOTO: REUTERS

SINGAPORE - Singapore has strongly condemned the twin terror attacks on churches in Egypt on Sunday (April 9), saying those responsible must be brought to justice.

It also said on Monday that there has been no report of any Singaporean affected by the attacks.

"Singapore strongly condemns the twin terror attacks on the Mar Girgis Church in Tanta and the St Mark's Cathedral in Alexandria during Egypt's Palm Sunday festivities... which had resulted in the tragic loss of lives, as well as injuries and suffering to many. Those responsible for these reprehensible acts must be brought to justice," the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) said in a statement.

"Singapore stands together with the Egyptian government against the scourge of terrorism and with its people at this time of grief. We also convey our deepest condolences to the victims' families while wishing the injured a speedy recovery,'' it added.

The attacks on Palm Sunday, one of the holiest days in Christianity, left at least 43 people dead and many others injured. The militant Islamic State in Iraq and Syria (ISIS) has claimed responsibility.

MFA said there are currently no e-registered Singaporeans in both cities and there are so far no reports of Singaporeans injured or directly affected by the attacks.

The ministry advised Singaporeans in Egypt to monitor the news, heed the advice of the local authorities and keep in touch with their families and friends.

Those who require urgent consular assistance should contact the Singapore Embassy in Cairo or the 24-hour MFA Duty Office at:

Embassy of the Republic of Singapore in Cairo

Tel: +20 2 3749 0468 / +20 2 3749 5045

Duty Hand-phone: +20 109 8064 130

E-mail: singemb_cai@mfa.sg

MFA Duty Office (24-hour)

Tel: +65 6379 8800/+65 6379 8855

E-mail: mfa_duty_officer@mfa.gov.sg

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