Drug trafficking allegation: Egyptian TV presenter Sarah Khalifa sentenced to death

In Egypt, Sarah Khalifa is known for the program “Mission Impossible” on the private channel “al-Mehwar”. It's about criminal cases. Now the 39-year-old is said to have been involved in a crime herself - this is what a criminal court in Cairo has now ruled. It found her guilty of running a drug ring with others that allegedly imported raw materials for synthetic drugs from abroad.

According to investigators, 750 kilos of these drugs were found among the gang members. The proceedings have been running since April 2025 against a total of 28 accused, and the verdict was handed down on Saturday. Khalifa was sentenced to death by hanging along with eleven other defendants. Nine others face life imprisonment, seven were acquitted. This is reported by the state-run Egyptian newspaper Al-Ahram, among others.

The court had previously sought the opinion of Egypt's Grand Mufti on what is required for such punishments. However, his opinion is not legally binding. The verdict was preceded by extensive evidence, and 20 witnesses testified, the state-run newspaper reports. The investigators also found illegal firearms and ammunition. Khalifa maintains her innocence.

“I don’t need drug money”

According to Al-Jazeera, she said she doesn't even smoke. She is quoted as saying: “My parents raised me well. They are people who pray. And I don't need drug money." The presenter had become known for various television shows and also demonstrated entrepreneurial skills beyond the TV studios. She runs an event agency and a cosmetic surgery clinic. She is also a social media personality with two and a half million followers on Instagram alone.

Those convicted still have the opportunity to appeal the sentence. According to the broadcaster Al-Jazeera, there are currently two ways to do this in Egypt. The convicts will probably first apply to a court of cassation to have the proceedings reopened. Egypt imposes death penalties for murder, terrorism and drug trafficking. According to Amnesty International, Egypt carried out 492 death sentences and 23 executions last year.