The electrical fire inside the Abu Seifain Church caused plumes of smoke, which blocked the entrance to the church, resulting in a stampede among worshipers, according to a ministry statement.

Hospitals across Egypt's second largest city were placed on alert as part of efforts to ensure the facilities are well-equipped to deal with a potential influx of patients.

Egypt's top prosecutor Hamada Elsaway has ordered a probe into the circumstances behind the incident, added the statement.

The Saudi Foreign Ministry expressed grave grief over the horrific fire that roared through Abu Seifain Church in Egypt earlier Sunday, leaving behind dozens of casualties. The ministry conveyed sincere condolences to families of the 41 victims, wishing speedy recovery for the 14 injured. — Agencies