The Egyptian president's office released a statement on Monday denouncing the killing of four Shia Muslims in a Giza village on Sunday, saying that "the state will not be lenient with anyone who tampers with Egypt's security or the unity of its people." An angry mob in the village of Zawyat Abu Musalam, allegedly led by Salafist sheikhs, attacked the houses of Shia residents, lynching four men, including a prominent Shia figure. The president's office said in an official statement that relevant state agencies will bring those who committed this crime to justice. The statement also said that the criminal incident which led to the "death of Egyptian citizens" contradicts with the "spirit of tolerance and respect of the Egyptian people." In addition, Prime Minister Hisham Qandil also released a statement on Monday saying that the incident contradicts all "religious doctrines." He also expressed his rejection of any hate speech, or incitement of violence and sedition in society. Egypt's prosecution has issued arrest warrants for 15 people accused of involvement in Sunday's incident, reported Ahram's Arabic language website. Investigations are continuing, with officials visiting the crime scene and hearing the testimony of over 20 witnesses so far.
