Jail Time and EGP 20,000 Fine for Spreading False Rumours About COVID-19

On Saturday, March 28th, Egypt's General Prosecution office announced that intentionally spreading false rumours about the Coronavirus will lead to jail time of five years and a fine that can go up to EGP 20,000. Legal action will be taken in accordance with articles 80, 102, and 188 of criminal law in order to prevent any attempt to rouse up panic in the public. The statement also called on citizens to verify news articles before they share them through social media.