According to Al Ferjani’s statement to investigators, the incident occurred while she and the suspect were inside the elevator. She said the man, who reportedly holds the nationality of a Gulf country, approached her, touched her hand and then grabbed the dog she was carrying, allegedly while attempting to introduce himself to her.
Al Ferjani said she firmly asked him to stay away from her before filing an official complaint with the authorities.
Following the complaint, Cairo security forces launched an investigation, identified the suspect and arrested him. He was later referred to the Public Prosecution for questioning.
During questioning, the suspect denied intentionally harassing or bothering Al Ferjani. He reportedly told investigators that he lives in the same building and that their encounter in the elevator was coincidental. He claimed that he approached her and touched the dog only because he wanted to introduce himself as a neighbor.
The Public Prosecution is continuing its investigation and reviewing the statements and available evidence to determine the circumstances of the incident and any potential legal responsibility.
Mariam Al Ferjani is best known for her leading role in the 2017 Tunisian film Beauty and the Dogs, directed by Kaouther Ben Hania. The film gained international recognition after being screened in the Un Certain Regard section at the Cannes Film Festival.