Egyptian state media reported that television presenter Sarah Khalifa, best known for her crime‑focused programme "Mission Impossible", has been sentenced to death by hanging after being convicted of drug‑related offences.
Khalifa, 39, was among twelve defendants found guilty of importing raw materials used to manufacture narcotics, as well as possessing illegal firearms and ammunition.
According to the state‑owned al‑Ahram newspaper, authorities seized more than 750 kg (1,653 lb) of narcotics and the precursor chemicals during the investigation.
The court relied on statements from twenty witnesses and electronic evidence, including recorded conversations and video clips, to support the charges.
The court also handed down life imprisonment to nine of the co‑defendants, while seven individuals were acquitted. Khalifa’s lawyer confirmed that an appeal against the death sentence will be lodged, noting that the sentence was only confirmed after the court obtained a religious opinion from Egypt’s grand mufti – a legal prerequisite in capital cases.
During a September court appearance, Khalifa denied any involvement, claiming she had never seen the drugs until she was photographed with them inside the anti‑narcotics authority’s offices.
The defendants were found guilty of drug trafficking and rape, offences that, under international law, do not qualify as "intentional killing" for which the death penalty is normally reserved.
A 2025 Amnesty International report highlighted that Egypt issued 492 death sentences in the year, of which 23 were carried out.
The organisation criticised the use of capital punishment for non‑homicide crimes, stating it contravenes international standards.
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Category: International
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