Celebratory gunfire: Egyptian bridegroom shot in genitals night before wedding
What's the story
28-year-old Egyptian man Osman al-Alsaied was seriously injured after he was shot on his genitals with shotgun pellets by a guest at his wedding. Alsaied was enjoying his last night as a single man when the gun was accidentally discharged towards him rather than the direction of the sky. The "celebratory gunfire" has left him with serious injuries to his testicles, thigh, and hand.
What happened?
Guest accidentally shot groom and fled, has been arrested
"Initial interrogations revealed that a 26-year-old man who was attending the party fired celebratory gunshots and accidentally hit the groom," according to local police. The guest was arrested after he fled the scene. The injured bridegroom was hospitalized. The incident has led to a widespread outcry on social media with many calling for a ban on the tradition of firing guns in celebration.
Details
Celebratory gunfire a longstanding tradition at Arab weddings
Celebratory gunfire is a tradition at weddings in Arab countries despite many countries banning the practice. The gunfire has led to accidental deaths, prompting several countries to crack down on the practice in recent times. Last month, a 14-year-old boy was accidentally shot dead at a wedding in Egypt. Celebratory gunfire is prevalent at weddings in certain parts of India despite being illegal.