We did not torture detained activist - Egypt

Egypt has released a statement contrary to claims that detained activist Patrick Zaky, was tortured.

Zaky, 28, a postgraduate student at Bologna University was arrested on 7 February at Cairo airport upon arrival for a family visit.

His lawyers claimed that he was beaten and electrocuted by security forces while in custody.

However, on Sunday Egypt's public prosecutor's office denied that any mistreatment had taken place.

"He (Zaky) did not testify to suffering any harm or abuse during his arrest or detention," they said in a statement.

"The public prosecution also did not observe any visible injuries."

Zaky was detained on a warrant issued in September after he had left the country to pursue his studies.

He faces accusations including disseminating false news and misusing social media to disrupt public order, charges he has denied, according to the prosecutor's statement.

On Saturday, authorities rejected a motion for his release and ordered he remain in custody until he faces the prosecutor next week, said the Egyptian Initiative for Personal Rights (EIPR).

Middle East Eye