Egypt court sentences 43 anti-government protesters to life: sources

Egypt's riot police and vehicles are seen in the Nile island of al-Warraq one day after security forces clashed with residents while attempting to demolish illegal buildings, in the south of Cairo, July 17, 2017. Picture taken July 17, 2017.

An Egyptian criminal court sentenced 43 activists to life in prison on Tuesday, judicial sources said, in a retrial of anti-government protesters who clashed with authorities in late 2011.

Mass trials have been common since the army deposed Muslim Brotherhood President Mohamed Mursi in 2013 following nationwide demonstrations against his rule. Both local and international rights groups have repeatedly voiced criticism.