Between ‘Enough’ and ‘Needs more,’ Uber Driver Sentenced to 15 Years for Attempted Kidnapping of ‘Shorouk Girl’

The Cairo Criminal Court has ruled to punish the Uber driver accused of attempting to kidnap Habiba Al-Shamaa, known as the “Shorouk Girl,” with 15 years in prison and a fine of EGP 50,000, in the first session of the driver’s trial. The civil lawsuit has been referred to the competent court, and the accused’s driving license has been revoked.

What Happened?

The representative of the Public Prosecution stated that the accused has frightened the girl, Habiba Al-Shamaa, leading her to throw herself from the car. As a consequence of the incident, the girl had no options but to jump from the moving vehicle at a speed of 100 km/h, resulting in her falling into a coma. It took 22 days until her demise.

Habiba Chose Death Over The Actions Of The Accused

During the session, the representative of the Public Prosecution questioned how a young woman in the prime of her youth could be accused of jumping out of a speeding car on a fast road. Nonetheless, she chose death over the actions of the accused. Furthermore, the accused admitted during investigations that he had been using drugs, stating, “I take drugs, I took a week before the incident.” He also confessed to purchasing drugs a few days prior to the incident.

Public Reactions Are Between With And Against

Reactions from the public to the verdict vary, reflecting a spectrum of opinions. Some individuals assert that the 15-year prison sentence imposed upon the accused is fair and just given the circumstances. They argue that it provides an opportunity for rehabilitation while still serving as a deterrent for similar offenses. However, others vehemently advocate for a harsher punishment, contending that the severity of the crime warrants a 25-year imprisonment or even the ultimate penalty of execution.