Deaths reported as Egyptian military clears protest camps

Egyptian security forces have started clearing out Cairo protest camps which have been demanding the reinstatement of deposed president Mohamed Mursi, the state news agency said.

At the biggest camp in northeast Cairo, security forces fired tear gas as police helicopters circled above and army vehicles were stationed nearby.

Reports said at least 15 people were killed as the clearing operation started.

There was no immediate official confirmation of the deaths.

The state news agency said security forces had started implementing a phased plan to disperse the protesters, which is almost certain to deepen political turmoil in Egypt.