Orthodox Christians celebrate Christmas amid tight security

Egypt's Orthodox Christians flocked to churches on Wednesday to attend Masses on Christmas Eve across the predominantly Muslim country, as the government continues to battle a burgeoning Islamic insurgency.

Police painstakingly searched more than 300 churches in Cairo, alone for explosive devices, according to police officer Gamal Halawa. Roadblocks were set up before churches nationwide and cars and motorcycles were temporarily banned from idling in front of them, he added.

Police targeted "any attempt to spoil the joy of the celebrations with decisive and firm action", Halawa said.