An Egyptian court has sentenced 11 individuals—including popular television presenter Sara Khalifa—to death by hanging. The verdict was delivered in a case involving the production and smuggling of narcotics, as well as the possession of illegal weapons. Sara Khalifa, 39, known for hosting the popular crime and security-focused TV show “Mission Impossible,” has consistently denied all charges brought against her.
According to Egypt’s state-run media outlet Al-Ahram, the accused had formed an organized ring to import raw materials for synthetic drug production from abroad for sale. During the investigation, law enforcement agencies seized two clandestine drug laboratories, illegal firearms, ammunition, and over 750 kilograms of narcotics and raw materials.
In addition to the testimonies of 20 witnesses, various audio messages and video footage were presented to the court as digital evidence. Although the court announced a preliminary verdict last month, Egyptian law mandates that the Grand Mufti’s opinion be sought before a death sentence can be carried out; the court formally confirmed the sentence only after receiving this religious endorsement. In the same case, nine other defendants were sentenced to life imprisonment, while seven were acquitted after being proven innocent. However, Sara Khalifa’s lawyer has stated that an appeal against the verdict will be filed in a higher court.
