An Egyptian court has sentenced TV presenter Sara Khalifa to death, along with 11 other individuals, in connection with a major drugs case. The court determined that Khalifa was part of a gang engaged in drug manufacturing and trafficking. Khalifa, 39, is a well-known figure in Egyptian television, having hosted a security and crime-focused program called “Mission Impossible,” and is also reported to run a cosmetic surgery clinic and a production company organizing parties and events.
During the investigation, authorities seized over 750 kilograms of narcotics along with materials used in drug manufacturing, according to Egyptian media reports. Two apartments suspected of being used for drug production were identified, where illegal firearms and ammunition were also reportedly recovered. The prosecution presented testimonies from 20 witnesses, along with phone messages, photographs, and videos, as evidence in the case.
Khalifa has denied the allegations against her from the outset, maintaining her innocence throughout the proceedings. She reportedly told the court that she had never encountered drugs in her life and could not explain how photographs allegedly showing her with drugs came to exist. According to Egyptian media, she became emotional in court, pleading with the judge to believe her and stating that she had been raised with strong values by her parents. Her legal team has indicated that they intend to appeal the verdict.
The death penalty remains in force in Egypt for certain offenses, including drug trafficking. Reports indicate that the opinion of Egypt’s Grand Mufti was sought as part of the process to formally confirm the sentence handed down to Khalifa, in line with standard procedure for capital cases in the country.
According to Amnesty International, Egypt issued 492 death sentences in 2025, with 23 executions carried out that year. Human rights organizations continue to strongly oppose the use of capital punishment in drug-related cases, raising concerns that remain a point of ongoing international scrutiny.