Egyptian television presenter Sarah Khalifa and 11 other defendants have been sentenced to death by hanging after being convicted in a major drug trafficking case.
The 39-year-old presenter, known for hosting Mission Impossible, a programme focused on crime-related issues, was found guilty alongside members of an alleged criminal gang involved in importing materials used to manufacture narcotics for distribution.
According to Egyptian state-owned media, the defendants were also convicted of possessing illegal firearms and ammunition.
Khalifa has denied the allegations, while her lawyer has announced plans to appeal the death sentence. Nine other defendants were handed life imprisonment, while seven were acquitted.
The verdict was initially announced last month but was formally confirmed after Egypt’s Grand Mufti issued the required religious opinion on the death sentences.
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During the trial, prosecutors told the court that authorities had seized more than 750kg of narcotics and raw materials allegedly intended for drug production.
The case also involved testimony from 20 witnesses and electronic evidence, including conversations and video recordings, according to state media.
During a court appearance last September, Khalifa reportedly denied involvement in the alleged drug operation. When questioned about her role, she said she had never seen drugs until she was photographed with them inside the offices of Egypt’s anti-narcotics authority.
The death sentences come amid continued international scrutiny of capital punishment in Egypt.
Amnesty International reported that Egyptian courts issued 492 death sentences in 2025, with 23 executions carried out during the year.
The organisation has criticised the use of the death penalty in cases involving crimes that do not involve intentional killing.
Khalifa’s appeal is expected to determine the next stage of the legal proceedings.
