An Irish man imprisoned in Egypt for more than four years for taking part in anti-government protests has finally been released.

Ibrahim Halawa, 21, was arrested during a government crackdown on protesters in August 2013 and was tried along with nearly 500 other defendants in a mass trial that concluded last month.

He was acquitted of all charges on September 18 and the Irish government said he was released from prison on Thursday night and expected to fly home to Dublin soon.

“Delighted to confirm Ibrahim Halawa has been released, being supported by family and Embassy. Some formalities still required before flying home,” said Simon Coveney, the Irish foreign minister on Twitter.

A Facebook group supporting Mr Halawa also said he had been released and posted a picture of him looking overjoyed and talking on a mobile phone.

“We can't thank enough all those who worked so hard for Ibrahim's release, we owe you all so much,” the Facebook post said.