The public prosecutor conducted on Wednesday investigations on the communication blackout during the 25 January revolution, which contributed to the deaths of several protesters who were unable to get medical help. Egyptian authorities blocked phone and internet services during the revolution in an attempt to thwart protesters organizing around the country. The Arab Network for Human Rights Information (ANHRI) said in a statement Wednesday that the prosecution is investigating the criminal responsibility of communication companies in harming and hindering the work of Egyptians. ANHRI accused companies of involvement in the deaths of protesters due to the communications breakdown. In its report, the network called for an investigation of the chairmen of the board of the three phonecall carriers, Mobinil, Vodafone and Etisalat, as well as internet companies Link and TEData. It also demanded an investigation into the role of the former communication minister and head of the National Telecommunication Regulatory Authority. ANHRI referred in its report to damage caused to its staff after the internet was shut down.
