At Least 17 Dead In Clashes Between Egypt Protesters, Police

Supporters of Egypt's deposed President Muhammad Morsi run for cover from tear gas fired by riot police during clashes in the northeastern part of Cairo's Nasr City district on January 3.

In Egypt, at least 17 people have reportedly been killed as security forces cracked down on protests by supporters of the banned Muslim Brotherhood.

Deaths were reported on January 3 in Cairo, Alexandria, Ismailia, Fayoum, and Minya.

The Health Ministry said more than 50 people were injured, and the Interior Ministry said 122 Muslim Brotherhood supporters were arrested.

A Muslim Brotherhood-led alliance said the death toll was actually 19.

Security forces moved in as thousands of people protested in defiance of a ban on demonstrations.

Hundreds of people have been killed in clashes and thousands imprisoned since the military overthrew Islamist-backed President Muhammad Morsi in July.

Clashes have intensified since the authorities officially declared the Muslim Brotherhood a terrorist organization last month.

The violence comes with the authorities preparing to hold a vote on a new constitution later this month.

Based on reporting by dpa, AP, and Reuters