Cairo, Egypt – Egyptian authorities have ordered the deportation of three Syrians detained during street celebrations earlier this month in Cairo, following reports of President Bashar al-Assad’s ousting.

The Egyptian Initiative for Personal Rights (EIPR) raised concerns about the move on Sunday, calling for their immediate release and criticizing the crackdown on public expressions of joy.

The detainees were among approximately 30 Syrians arrested by Egyptian security forces on December 8 and 9 in the city of Sixth of October, west of Cairo.

The arrests occurred during the dispersal of spontaneous gatherings celebrating the reported end of Assad’s decades-long rule and the announcement by Syrian rebels that they had taken control of Damascus. Assad and his family were said to have fled to Russia.

The celebratory gatherings were brief. A 15-minute gathering near Hosary Mosque ended before police arrived.

However, in another part of Sixth of October’s Second District, security forces reportedly arrested 20 Syrians at random after breaking up another celebration. All detainees were transferred to the local police station.

Residency Status and Legal Concerns

According to EIPR, six individuals with valid residency permits were released on December 10.

However, those holding temporary asylum-seeker cards, known as “yellow cards,” were kept in custody and later transferred to the passport and immigration authority in Abbasiya.

Despite an order for their release, the three Syrians now facing deportation remain detained, raising concerns about Egypt’s adherence to international refugee agreements.

The EIPR criticized the authorities for targeting individuals based on nationality and suppressing public expressions of solidarity or celebration.

“EIPR condemns the excessive security measures in Egypt, which prevent individuals from expressing their opinions, solidarity, or joy publicly,” the group stated.

Risk of Forced Return

The rights organization expressed grave concerns about the potential deportation of the Syrians, citing the ongoing risks in Syria.

The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) advises against considering Syria a safe destination for refugee returns due to the country’s volatile situation.

“Forced return would expose them to significant risks,” the EIPR emphasized. The organization urged Egyptian authorities to adhere to international agreements protecting refugees and asylum seekers from being returned to countries where their safety or lives are at risk.

Broader Implications for Syrian Refugees

Egypt hosts a significant Syrian refugee population, with Syrians accounting for half of the country’s refugee and asylum-seeking community. As of December 2021, 136,700 Syrian refugees were registered with UNHCR in Egypt.

The recent arrests highlight growing concerns about the treatment of refugees under Egypt’s security apparatus. While President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi’s government has emphasized its support for refugees, rights groups argue that restrictive measures undermine this stance.

EIPR called on Egyptian authorities to release the detained Syrians, halt any deportation efforts, and respect the country’s commitments under international law.

“The Public Prosecutor’s Office and law enforcement agencies must adhere to existing laws and Egypt’s obligations under international agreements,” the group stated.

As the situation unfolds, the plight of the detained Syrians remains uncertain, with rights groups continuing to advocate for their protection.