Sarah Khalifa sentenced to death in Egypt for drug trafficking

Egyptian television presenter Sarah Khalifa and eleven others have been sentenced to death by a Cairo criminal court for involvement in an organized criminal network dedicated to manufacturing and trafficking synthetic drugs. Khalifa, known for hosting the crime-focused program ‘Mission Impossible’ on the Al-Mehwar channel, was accused of providing funding for the operation, coordinating activities, and traveling abroad to meet network leaders.

Authorities seized over 750 kg of drugs and raw materials, including MDMB-4en-PINACA, a potent synthetic cannabinoid, from two locations used as laboratories. The court also cited illegal possession of firearms and ammunition. Khalifa’s brother, Mohamed Khalifa, was also sentenced to death and accused of manufacturing and testing the drugs.

Khalifa has consistently denied all charges, stating she has never smoked a cigarette and has no need for drug money. Her defense team has announced intentions to appeal the verdict through the Egyptian legal system, including the Court of Appeal and the Court of Cassation. This case follows a separate conviction for Khalifa involving the illegal detention and assault of a young man, for which she received a prison sentence.