Egypt Bans Former Prime Minister From Leaving Country

CAIRO – Egyptian state TV says a former prime minister and Cabinet minister have been banned from leaving the country, a move that is often the prelude to a criminal investigation and a possible trial.

It says Egypt's top prosecutor on Wednesday banned Atef Obeid, prime minister from 2001 to 2004, as well as long-serving Culture Minister Farouq Hosni from traveling abroad.

The ban also covers Osama el-Sheikh, the head of state TV and radio.

The attorney general also banned nine businessmen from leaving Egypt.

The bans are the latest move by Egypt's military rulers against stalwarts of the administration of ousted President Hosni Mubarak and businessmen associated with his regime.

Mubarak stepped down Feb. 11 after a popular uprising, handing over power to the military.

THIS IS A BREAKING NEWS UPDATE. Check back soon for further information. AP's earlier story is below.

CAIRO (AP) — A security official says hundreds of low-ranking police have set fire to parts of the security headquarters in Cairo after four days of protests to demand better salaries.

The official says the protesters hurled firebombs at the building, setting parts of it ablaze. The official spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to speak to the press.

The official says soldiers tried to disperse the crowd by firing in the air, but failed.

Egypt is now ruled by military commanders after massive protests ousted longtime President Hosni Mubarak.

Egypt's police fired on protesters early in the uprising, cementing the loathing many Egyptians feel for the security forces over widespread bribe-taking, abuse and torture.