Appeals Court Reduces Sentence

The Alexandria Appellate Economic Court accepted the appeal filed by Egyptian content creator Karawan Mashakel and reduced his prison sentence to six months, while maintaining a fine of EGP 200,000 in a case involving the publication of content deemed offensive to public decency on social media.

Original Verdict Modified

Initial Court Ruling

The Economic Court in Alexandria had previously sentenced the defendant to two years in prison with hard labor, imposed a fine of EGP 200,000, ordered the confiscation of seized items, and required payment of legal expenses. The ruling also included bail of EGP 50,000 to suspend execution.

Appeal Decision

After reviewing the appeal, the court reduced the prison term from two years to six months while keeping the financial penalty unchanged.

Background of the Case

TikTok Video Triggered Investigation

The case dates back to May 2026, when prosecutors reviewed a video posted by the defendant on TikTok. According to court documents, the video contained content considered offensive to public decency and inconsistent with societal values.

The Alexandria Economic Prosecution launched an investigation before referring the case to the Economic Court under Case No. 855 of 2026.

Arrest and Charges

Legal Basis of the Charges

Following legal procedures, Alexandria security authorities arrested the defendant based on prosecutors' orders.

He faced charges under Articles 166 bis and 178 of the Egyptian Penal Code, in addition to provisions of the Cybercrime Law No. 175 of 2018 and the Telecommunications Regulation Law.

Latest Legal Developments

After questioning, prosecutors initially released the defendant pending trial. The Economic Court later issued its original verdict, which was subsequently amended by the appellate court, reducing the prison sentence while maintaining the financial fine.

What is the new sentence for Karawan Mashakel?

The appellate court sentenced him to six months in prison and upheld a fine of EGP 200,000.

Why was he prosecuted?

He was accused of publishing a social media video deemed offensive to public decency.

What was the original sentence?

Two years in prison, a fine of EGP 200,000, confiscation of seized items, and legal expenses.

Was the fine canceled?

No. The appellate court upheld the EGP 200,000 fine.

When did the case begin?

The investigation started in May 2026 after authorities reviewed a TikTok video posted by the defendant.