Popular Egyptian ex-footballer, Mohamed Aboutrika placed on terror list
Popular Egyptian ex-footballer, Mohamed Aboutrika has been placed on a terror list by the government for his alleged links with the banned Muslim Brotherhood.
BBC reports that Aboutrika has been accused of funding the Brotherhood, a religious group Egypt considers a terrorist organisation.
The former national team captain had in 2012, endorsed the successful presidential bid by Mohammed Morsi, a Brotherhood member.
Aboutrika is now subject to a travel ban and faces having his passport and assets frozen, as with other persons named on the terror list.
His lawyer, Mohamed Osman, expressed his disappointment at the development, saying the move was “contrary to the law.”
Osman said his team “will appeal this decision,” as his client had “not been convicted or formally notified of any of the charges against him”.
Aboutrika, who had a string of assets, including shares in a number of companies, seized by the Egyptian authorities in 2015, continues to deny that he funds the religious movement or involve in any terrorist activities.
Since Morsi’s overthrow in 2013, a police crackdown against the Brotherhood has left hundreds dead and thousands jailed.
The ex-footballer was awarded the BBC African Footballer of the Year honour in 2008.
