17 Aug 2009

Egyptian travel decision angers pilgrims

11:05 am on 17 August 2009

Angry scenes erupted at Cairo airport where Egyptian security forces have prevented Muslim pilgrims from travelling to Mecca because of fears over swine flu.

About 300 pilgrims staged a sit-in after Egyptian authorities began implementing plans to stop those under the age of 25 or over 60 from travelling.

The restrictions could affect large numbers of people because many elderly Muslims want to visit Mecca before dying.