Alexandria Zoo hosts chimps seized at Cairo airport

CAIRO - 3 May 2026: The Alexandria Zoo has received three baby chimpanzees and several rare reptiles after they were seized at Cairo International Airport on Sunday, the Ministry of Agriculture announced.

Head of the General Organization for Veterinary Services Hamed El-Aknas said the animals underwent urgent veterinary procedures upon arrival, including clinical examinations and health assessments.

 

The chimpanzees were treated for anesthesia-related effects and stress caused by unsafe transport.

The animals were given preventative vaccinations and placed in a temporary quarantine to ensure they are free of infectious diseases. A behavioral and nutritional rehabilitation program has been established to prepare them for integration into the zoo’s public exhibits.

 

The seizure occurred when airport customs and veterinary quarantine officials caught an Egyptian passenger traveling to India. The passenger had hidden the three sedated chimpanzees and 10 bags of rare reptiles in his luggage, violating international laws governing endangered species.

Following the discovery, Agriculture Minister Alaa Farouk ordered the immediate confiscation of the animals and their safe transfer to Alexandria under specialized supervision.