Egypt detains six journalists from fact-checking outlet on terror charges

Egypt's security forces have arrested six journalists employed by a fact-checking website, state media confirmed. The detainees face allegations of involvement in terrorism and disseminating misinformation, according to official statements from Egyptian authorities.

The arrests underscore ongoing tensions between the Egyptian government and independent media outlets operating in the country. Fact-checking organisations have become increasingly targeted by authorities in recent years, with officials frequently characterising their work as harmful to national security.

The detained journalists worked for a platform dedicated to verifying information and countering false narratives circulating on social media and other channels. Their arrest has drawn concern from international media freedom advocates who view such actions as indicative of shrinking press freedoms in the region.

No further details regarding the specific allegations against the six individuals have been disclosed by authorities. The incident reflects broader challenges facing journalists and media organisations across the Middle East and North Africa, where press freedom indices remain comparatively low.