A number of extremists set a Coptic house on fire in the village of Faw in Qena, in escalation in the situation after they refused to allow the Copts to pray on Christmas eve.
5 Copts and 6 Muslims were arrested and the prayers were prevented in the village.
Dishna diocese has requested the legalization of a church in the village one year ago, but the demands were ignored though 4000 Copts live in the village are prevented from praying in the church.
