Influencer Malévola Alves reports abuse following arrest in Egypt

Brazilian influencer Malévola Alves and her friend, Bruna Mercatelli, have returned to Brazil after being detained in Alexandria, Egypt. The duo was arrested following the circulation of social media videos featuring dancing and gestures that Egyptian authorities classified as obscene behavior and public harassment.

Upon her return, Alves reported experiencing severe humiliation and physical and sexual abuse while in custody. She alleged that she was forced to remain naked during interrogation and claimed that the treatment she received was motivated by her status as a transgender woman in an Islamic country. Alves stated that the abuse by authorities only ceased once they realized her biological sex.

While the Egyptian Ministry of Interior confirmed the arrests based on allegations of indecency and harassment, Alves maintains that the activities recorded were consensual and intended for entertainment. She reported suffering from panic attacks, anxiety, and depression as a result of the ordeal and intends to seek medical attention.