Egyptian police have arrested a model and her photographer for taking photos they deemed “provocative and offensive” at the historic pyramids in Cairo. 

The photographs which were shared on social media showed the curvy model Salma al-Shimi wearing all white figure hugging dress with pharaoh-like accessories at the necropolis site of Saqqara, 30km south of Cairo.

The photos caused uproar in the deeply conservative country with many condemning the model and photographer for the “obscene images”. 

Salma who appeared on Tuesday in front of a public prosecutor had objected to all of the accusations made against her, arguing that her aim had been to promote tourism rather than offend Egypt.

A judicial source told the Middle East newspaper the pair were accused of “taking photos without authorisation in the Saqqara archaeological site”. 

Saqqara is an ancient burial ground and tourist attraction in Egypt. It contains numerous pyramids, including the Step Pyramid of Djoser. 

The pair were released on bail pending the results of an investigation.

These arrests come amid an Egyptian government crackdown on women social media users for content they deemed inappropriate. 

Some commentators have pointed out that men get a pass for wearing similarly revealing outfits. 

By Momodou Musa Touray