CAIRO — Egyptian policemen are protesting in several cities across the country, refusing orders to work and accusing officials of trying to politicize the force.

Dozens of policemen blocked the entrance to one of Cairo's main police stations on Thursday, demanding the removal of the interior minister.

They accuse him of trying to use the force to protect the Muslim Brotherhood, the group from which the president hails.

Police in other cities also are rallying outside police stations, saying they are being forced to confront protesters angry with President Mohammed Morsi.

Others are holding a sit-in outside Morsi's house in his hometown northeast of the capital.

The Interior Ministry said in a statement that it stands at equal distance from all parties that the ministry is being objective in its duties.