Dutch reporter held in Egypt accused of spying

[April 09, 2013]  CAIRO (AP) -- A colleague says a Dutch journalist has been arrested by Egyptian citizens while reporting in Cairo, accused of being a spy and handed to authorities who detained her overnight.

The Netherlands Embassy confirmed on Tuesday that Rena Netjes had been arrested the day before. An Egyptian security official said she will be interrogated by prosecutors. He spoke on anonymously because he was not authorized to speak to the media.

Egypt's government warned citizens in TV public announcements aired last year against talking to foreigners who they said may be spies. Last month, authorities encouraged civilians to arrest lawbreakers.

Bas Altena, a colleague, said Netjes contacted her asking for help after her arrest. Her phone had been taken away after citizens accused her of spying and handed her to authorities.

[Associated Press]

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