Clashes between Muslims and Christians in Cairo left at least five people dead and the al-Azraa church on fire.

The clashes - in the suburb of Imbaba - came after Muslims attacked the Saint Mena church to free a Christian woman, witnesses said.

They alleged she was being held against her will because she wanted to convert to Islam.

Soldiers and police, backed by tanks, fired guns and tear gas to separate the groups, according to reports.