Egypt Refers Building Violations in Cairo to Prosecution After Surprise Inspections

Egypt’s Ministry of Local Development and Environment has referred several building and administrative violations in Cairo’s El Marg and Ain Shams districts to the Public Prosecution following surprise inspections aimed at tackling illegal construction and strengthening local government oversight.

In a statement, the ministry said Minister of Local Development and Environment Manal Awad had received a report detailing the findings of an unannounced inspection conducted by the ministry’s Inspection and Performance Evaluation Sector in El Marg district. The report also included the outcome of an investigation into a citizen’s complaint concerning illegal construction at two buildings in Ain Shams.

According to the report, El Marg district issued 10 building permits, completed technical reviews of 133 building reconciliation files, issued 180 reconciliation-related forms, and finalised 22 utility connection compliance requests. Inspection teams also reviewed the performance of local technology service centres and monitored the handling of citizens’ requests and reconciliation procedures.

During the inspections, teams ordered the immediate demolition of unauthorised construction, including illegal floors, columns and reinforced concrete structures erected without permits. Construction materials were confiscated, and legal action was initiated against those responsible.

Inspectors also identified irregularities in several building reconciliation files and delays in responding to a number of spatial monitoring reports. These cases have been referred to the competent prosecution authorities for further action.

The report further highlighted shortcomings in paving and interlocking tile works under the 2025/2026 fiscal year plan. The district administration has been directed to rectify the implementation deficiencies. Inspection teams also conducted campaigns to remove street encroachments, reclaim illegally occupied public spaces, and close several unlicensed commercial establishments.

The ministry said it had uncovered what it described as "serious violations" within El Marg’s housing administration, including failures to take timely legal action against illegal construction, allowing unauthorised buildings to proliferate. The officials concerned have been referred to prosecution.

In Ain Shams, inspectors examined two properties following a complaint lodged with the ministry.

The first property, on Sidi Bilal Street, had been licensed for a basement, ground floor, mezzanine and three upper floors. However, the owner unlawfully extended the building to the ninth floor. The ministry said demolition of the illegal additions had already begun and would continue until all unauthorised structures were removed.

The second property, on Ismail El-Fangary Street, was found to have been built entirely without a permit. The building comprises a ground floor, first floor and structural columns for a second floor. Authorities immediately ordered and commenced demolition of the illegal structure while initiating legal proceedings against those responsible.

Minister Awad directed inspection teams to continue monitoring demolition operations in both districts and reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to nationwide inspection campaigns. She said the ministry would continue enforcing building regulations, improving public services, holding negligent officials accountable, and responding promptly to citizens’ complaints.

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