Ahmed Kamel – Egypt Daily News
A street altercation erupted in the Kerdasa district of Giza after a four-wheel-drive vehicle bearing an Israeli flag sticker triggered public anger, prompting police to intervene and launch an investigation into the incident.
According to Egyptian security sources and local media, the dispute began when the driver of a Jeep Cherokee identified as an agricultural engineer, parked outside a telecommunications branch in the area. The owner of a nearby clothing shop objected to the vehicle being parked in front of his store, leading to a verbal confrontation.
The situation quickly escalated when bystanders noticed Israeli flag stickers affixed to the vehicle’s rear windows. Witnesses gathered around the driver to question him, and a heated argument broke out that turned into physical scuffles. The driver then attempted to flee the scene, colliding with several parked and moving vehicles while being pursued by residents along the tourist street in Kerdasa.
During questioning, the driver said he feared for his safety after being physically assaulted by members of the crowd, which prompted his attempt to escape. He added that he lost control of the steering wheel while speeding away, resulting in multiple collisions.
Authorities reported that six people sustained fractures and various injuries after the vehicle struck pedestrians and cars. The injured were transferred to hospitals for treatment.
The incident had drawn widespread attention on social media after a video circulated showing the speeding vehicle with the Israeli flag sticker near a branch of Vodafone in Kerdasa.
Subsequent investigations by the Interior Ministry revealed that the local police station in Kerdasa had received a report of the crash on the 27th of the month. Security services later apprehended the driver and seized the vehicle.
In a significant development, the driver’s family submitted official medical documents indicating that he has suffered from a psychological disorder for several years and has been receiving psychiatric treatment. Authorities said this may explain the erratic behavior he displayed during the incident.
Investigators also resolved questions surrounding the Israeli flag sticker. The driver had reportedly visited a local car accessories shop and asked the shop owner’s daughter to print the sticker. She told investigators she complied out of fear because she was aware of his psychological instability as he is known in the neighborhood.
Legal procedures have been initiated, and the suspect, along with his medical records, has been referred to the Public Prosecution for further investigation to determine full responsibility in the case. Security officials said the probe aims to clarify the facts and counter misinformation circulating online.
