Uber Driver Faces Additional Charges in ‘Shorouk Girl’ Case

The Public Prosecution has referred the Uber driver involved in the death of Habiba El Shamaa, known in media coverage as ‘Shorouk Girl’, to criminal court on multiple charges. The case has sparked outrage in Egypt after Habiba El Shamaa jumped out of a moving car fearing a kidnapping attempt.

The driver, previously facing an attempted kidnapping charge, will now also be tried for forgery of official documents and driving under the influence of narcotics. Investigations revealed the driver had a history of drug use and the perfume he claimed to spray may have been an intoxicant.

Habiba El Shamaa sustained fatal injuries after jumping from the car on Suez Road. Medical reports indicate she died from cardiac arrest caused by a lack of blood circulation. Prosecutors have ordered the examination of the driver's car's surveillance cameras and a mandatory drug test.

The family's lawyer seeks compensation from both the driver and Uber for damages.  The judge extended the driver's detention for 15 days as investigations into the attempted kidnapping continue.