Security increased around churches in Egypt during holidays

Churches are experiencing greater security over the holiday season in Egypt.

Egyptian authorities have increased security around religious buildings, including churches and mosques during the time of Christmas and New Years, Barnabas Aid reports.

Buildings in Cairo and other major cities and towns will have increased protection over the holidays from army personnel in addition to police.

Economic facilities in the country are also receiving greater protection.

The increase in security is responding to threats against Christians by terrorists. A number of suspected Islamic extremists have already been arrested by security forces.

Since the 2011 Arab Spring protests, Egyptian forces have dealt with IS militants in northern Sinai who have threatened to kill all Christians.

In January this year, an Egyptian police officer was killed prior to the day for Orthodox Christmas celebrations while trying to diffuse a bomb that was planted near a church in Cairo.