Egypt: Disabling the automatic control system behind the Ayyat train collision

The Egyptian Public Prosecution ordered the detention of two employees and the seizure of a third following a train collision in Ayyat that killed 7 people and injured dozens. The investigation revealed the disabling of the automatic control system, negligence of monitors in following the signal board, and tampering with logs.

The Egyptian Public Prosecution ordered the detention of two railway employees and the seizure of a third, in connection with a train collision in the Ayyat area west of Cairo, which resulted in the deaths of 7 people and injuries to dozens. The preliminary investigation revealed the disabling of the automatic train control system, negligence of monitors in following the signal board, and tampering with logs. Attorney General Counselor Mohamed Shawqi formed a committee of professors from the Faculty of Engineering at Cairo University to examine the accident. A team of investigators went to the scene, reviewed surveillance camera recordings, and questioned eyewitnesses. The prosecution also heard statements from injured individuals in hospitals in Ayyat, Atfih, and Beni Suef, several of whom confirmed that train No. 134 had been speeding since leaving Ayyat station until the accident occurred. The prosecution examined the bodies of the deceased and questioned their families. The prosecution also heard statements from the Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Egyptian National Railways and his deputies.