Director of Qena security Maj.-Gen. Mohamad Kamal said Sunday Qena was on high alert and the security forces tightened their grip ahead of Coptic Orthodox Christmas. In statements on Sunday, Kamal said several campaigns were launched to detect any traffic violations in the province. "Security measures are in place to protect all churches in Qena," according to Kamal. Both stationary and mobile patrols in addition to other security measures are in place to secure places of worship during the services.