A German tourist has died after being bitten by a snake during a hotel performance in the Egyptian resort of Hurghada, in an incident now under investigation by authorities in Germany. The 57-year-old man had been holidaying in Egypt with family members when he attended an entertainment show featuring two snakes. According to investigators, one of them, believed to be an Egyptian cobra bit him after it was allowed to crawl inside his clothing as part of the act.

The victim reportedly showed immediate signs of envenomation and had to be resuscitated at the scene before being taken to hospital. He later died after arrival. German prosecutors have opened an investigation and toxicology results are awaited.  When contacted, Egyptian authorities said they were not aware of the incident at the time of the report.

What is snake charming?

Snake charming is a traditional street and tourist performance found in parts of North Africa, the Middle East and South Asia. Despite the common image of snakes being “hypnotised” by music, snakes do not respond to melodies in the same way humans do. Instead, they react to movement, posture and vibrations.

When a charmer moves an instrument in front of a cobra, the snake often follows the movement while maintaining a defensive stance. What appears to be dancing is usually a response to a perceived threat rather than a trained routine.

Why this case is unusual

Fatal snakebite incidents involving organised tourist performances are rarely reported internationally, which is one reason this case has attracted attention. The Egyptian cobra (Naja haje) is the most venomous snakes in North Africa, but outcomes after a bite can depend on several factors, amount of venom injected, location of the bite, speed of treatment and the victim’s overall health.

Bites to the leg can still be medically serious because venom can spread through tissue and circulation. Rapid emergency treatment is essential, particularly if symptoms develop quickly.

Defanged snakes and altered fangs

In some tourist shows and illegal wildlife performances around the world, snakes have historically had their fangs removed, damaged or otherwise altered in an attempt to reduce the risk of bites. In other cases, venom glands may be injured or the snake may be handled in ways that compromise its welfare.

However, these practices are controversial, harmful to the animal and do not guarantee safety. Snakes can still bite with remaining teeth, infections may occur, and some procedures are temporary or incomplete. A performer may also use animals that have not been altered at all. There is currently no verified public information confirming whether the snake involved in the Hurghada incident had undergone any such procedure. That question may form part of any official investigation.

Welfare and safety concerns

Wildlife experts and animal welfare organisations have long criticised performances involving close public contact with venomous animals. Concerns usually focus on two issues: risk to people and treatment of the animals.

Repeated handling, bright lights, noise, transport and crowd interaction can place reptiles under stress. From a public safety perspective, even experienced handlers face risk when using venomous species in uncontrolled environments such as hotel entertainment areas.

Tourism and regulation

Hurghada is one of Egypt’s best-known Red Sea holiday destinations, attracting large numbers of international visitors each year. Resort entertainment often includes cultural performances and excursions, but standards and oversight can vary depending on venue and operator.

This incident is likely to renew questions about how live animal acts are supervised, what safety measures are required, and whether tourists are given enough protection when invited to participate.

A wider reminder

Although the circumstances are unusual, the case underlines a broader point: wild animals, especially venomous species, remain unpredictable even in staged settings. Behaviour that appears calm can change instantly if an animal feels threatened, stressed or trapped.

For travellers, the safest approach is to avoid direct contact with wild animals used in entertainment displays, particularly where venomous species are involved. Watching from a distance is one thing; becoming part of the act carries very different risks.

Local democracy took a major step forward in Salobreña as authorities held the first Citizen Forum titled ‘La Salobreña que vivimos’. Attendees gained direct input into local council decisions and taxpayer spending for the first time in this structured way.

Citizen input drives new participation rules

Neighbours and community groups gathered to share ideas on the upcoming Citizen Participation Regulation, due for approval before summer. Discussions covered participation models, meeting venues and how often gatherings should occur. Organisers collected preferences to build a system that turns resident suggestions into actual policies improving daily life across the town and its districts of Lobres, La Caleta and La Guardia.

Experience from Armilla informs the Salobreña model

Participants learned from a proven example in Armilla on the outskirts of Granada. The council from there explained how resident proposals feed directly into annual council budgets. Their presentation encouraged both local councillors and ordinary people in Salobreña to commit fully, saying that such processes strengthen community belonging and shared responsibility.

Mayor emphasises “power to the people”

Javier Ortega Prados, mayor of Salobreña, expressed that he was extremely pleased with the event and thanked everyone who took part. He stated clearly that the goal involves giving decision-making power to residents themselves. With the regulation still in draft stage, this moment offers a rare chance for locals to define exactly how they wish to engage. Ortega added that citizen participation represents the strongest opportunity for Salobreña, insisting the town’s future must grow through collective effort. Further meetings will follow to widen involvement and establish sector-specific councils.

Planned tools bring government closer to communities

Strategies include forming an economic and social council, various sector councils and neighbourhood councils focused on areas such as the historic centre, Lobres and La Caleta-La Guardia. Other measures will encompass participatory budgets, citizen initiatives and digital platforms enabling input from anywhere. A new open questionnaire will launch soon as a broader survey to refine the model, which has now started officially.

Next phase builds more open administration

This initial forum launches a wider project called Salobreña Participa. Authorities hope to create a more transparent and inclusive local government where resident input plays a central role in shaping council plans. Continued dialogue will help close the loop between ideas and concrete actions benefiting everyone in the town.

Are you a resident of Salobreña? What would you propose for your town via the new public participation forum?

Age Concern Marbella & San Pedro have been in touch to disseminate tried and tested ways to protect your property from opportunistic thieves this summer season with simple steps recommended by local experts. Many expats will be planning to travel this summer season, and opportunists can take advantage of empty properties. Age Concern Marbella-San Pedro share their years of knowledge with practical advice to deter criminals and keep homes safe without high costs or hassle.

1. Create the illusion of occupancy at all times

Homeowners away for even brief periods must hide any indication of their absence. Burglars often pose as utility workers or delivery staff during daylight hours. Timer switches help lights activate at random intervals to suggest someone remains inside. Water plants thoroughly before departure or position delicate varieties in shaded water bowls. These measures reduce obvious vacancy signals that attract unwanted attention.

2. Strengthen entry points with basic upgrades

Proper locks on doors and windows form an essential first defence. Properties without security grilles benefit from quality fittings installed promptly. Solar-powered lights on exterior walls and stairwells activate automatically upon movement at night to discourage approaches. Windows stay closed even in warm conditions, particularly those hidden from street view. Curtains or lowered Persian blinds add a further layer of privacy and concealment.

3. Consider modern alarm options for added peace of mind

Alarm systems equipped with camera features can provide effective monitoring. Comparisons between several providers will reveal suitable packages and current promotions for new installations. Research makes sure choices match individual needs and budgets in the local area.

4. Exercise caution with social media updates

Posts about holidays or time away on platforms such as Facebook and Instagram reveal empty properties to potential intruders. Thieves monitor these channels to identify targets. Avoiding such public announcements prevents unnecessary invitations to crime.

5. Address additional fire and safety hazards

Clear dry vegetation and debris from gardens and terraces, especially in fire-risk zones common to the Costa del Sol. Unplug electrical items and switch off boilers when leaving the premises unoccupied. These actions minimise multiple dangers during extended absences.

Age Concern Marbella – San Pedro encourages community members to submit further suggestions via email to info@ageconcernmarbella.com. Volunteers will distribute useful ideas to support local safety efforts. Contact the helpline on +34 689 355 198 for advice tailored to the Marbella and San Pedro region.