In October 2025, Augustinos Samaan, a Christian apologist, was arrested by Egyptian authorities and charged with “contempt of Islam” for his online content defending and explaining the Christian faith. During the arrest his laptop, phone, books and personal papers were confiscated.
In January 2026 he was sentenced to five years imprisonment with hard labor, enforced immediately for “contempt of religion” and “misuse of social media” under Egypt’s blasphemy laws. He has appealed his sentence.
According to Coptic Solidarity, Augustinos Samaan (37), is a Coptic researcher specializing in comparative religion. Through scholarly work and online educational content, he peacefully discussed religious issues and responded to anti-Christian incitement, activities which are protected under international human rights law.
Prison Address:
Tenth of Ramadan Rehabilitation Prison
Building 6
Belbeis Tenth of Ramadan City
Sharqia Governorate
Egypt
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