Four individuals were detained in Cairo, Egypt, for operating an unlicensed addiction treatment center, where drug users were unlawfully detained and subjected to unauthorized treatments.

The investigation began when the Maadi Police Department received information regarding the management of a medical center without proper licensing involving the confinement of drug users. The individuals in charge were found to be prescribing medications without medical consultation in exchange for payment.

Upon apprehension, it was discovered that three of the four individuals had criminal records, with one serving as the director. Inside the center, 75 people were found, some admitting to being held against their will, while others were confined by their families.

Disturbingly, the detainees were reportedly chained and physically abused. The search also resulted in the seizure of illicit drugs, including narcotics and unregulated tranquilizers.

Evidence such as a suspect’s mobile phone, notebooks containing resident data, a cash collection ledger, and restraining ropes were also found.