An Egyptian model and a photographer were detained because of an allegedly disrespectful photo shoot at the Saqqara necropolis, which has numerous pyramids, including the iconic Step Pyramid built for pharaoh Djoser, local media reported. According to Egypt Independent, their case was referred to the country’s prosecution office for investigation by the Antiquities Council’s Secretary General Mostafa al-Waziry.
The two were detained after the model, Salma al-Shimi, who has thousands of followers on Instagram, posted images from the photo shoot. The photos show the young woman dressed in ancient Egyptian clothes – a white dress and a sash. She also wore a crown with a serpent and held a sceptre.
The images have drawn a mixed response, with some people criticising the model for perceived inappropriate behaviour.
The Times wrote, citing Egypt’s Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, that Salma al-Shimi and the photographer had been detained for violating rules that bar exploitation of the pyramids for commercial purposes. According to the newspaper, the ministry stressed that any person will be punished for failing to show respect for Egypt’s heritage.