Khaled and His Family Prevented from Traveling

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 652 Days Khaled and His Family Prevented from Traveling Family Indefinitely Held in Egyptian Airport, Medical Care Savings Confiscated and Family is Very Distressed This evening as Sarah, Khaled and their four children were leaving to go home, the family was stopped at Cairo International Airport by Airport Security Services and told they would not be allowed to travel. For the last six hours they have been held without any indication of when they will be allowed to go home. Their passports have been taken and Sarah’s savings intended for Khaled’s medical care costs have been confiscated. Over the last few months Khaled has worked diligently and respectfully to ensure that all his travel documents are in order. Khaled has received confirmations from legal authorities in Egypt that he is cleared from all accusations, not under investigation and is not banned from travel. The family and the legal team had formally notified all relevant authorities with their travel plans and Khaled’s medical arrangements. There has been no explanation by Airport Security Services as to why the family is currently being held. Prior to travel, Khaled’s lawyers confirmed that he is not on a travel ban list. Thus, the actions of the Airport Security Services at Cairo International Airport are inconsistent with the clearances provided to the family. Sarah and Khaled’s family and friends are very concerned at this time. Khaled is in need of urgent medical care. Sarah and the children are extremely exhausted and distressed by the current circumstances. Khaled and Sarah hope that Egyptian Authorities will cooperate to clear this matter to facilitate a smooth exit from Egypt immediately. Sarah is in contact with Canadian authorities who have been assisting her and the children. Sarah and her children are all Canadian citizens and Khaled is a Canadian permanent resident. “The children are very overwhelmed and this has been a very difficult experience for all of us. We had hoped to celebrate with friends and family in the morning. We will continue to communicate with the necessary Egyptian and Canadian authorities to confirm immediate and safe travels. I look forward to catching the next flight to Toronto,” says Sarah Attia. Recent Health Update Canadian physicians have been consulted regarding recent MRI reports. Khaled’s imaging report corroborates multiple areas of concern in his cervical and lumbar spine. Khaled is at risk of suffering irreversible damage to his spine, spinal cord and peripheral nerves. Without treatment he is in danger of permanent paralysis. Khaled’s family has arranged admission to a Canadian hospital immediately upon his arrival. Free Khaled Al-Qazzaz Since July 3, 2013 Khaled has been detained in Egyptian jails, without charge. http://www.freekhal...