In brief
Egypt’s court sentenced television presenter Sarah Khalifa and 11 others to death by hanging for drug trafficking and related offences. The verdict, confirmed after a religious ruling, followed the seizure of over 750 kg of narcotics and claims of illegal firearms. Khalifa, famed for her crime‑focused show "Mission Impossible," denied the charges and alleges the evidence is fabricated. Human‑rights groups have criticized the use of the death penalty in non‑violent cases, noting 492 death sentences were handed down in 2025, with 23 executions carried out to date.
Egyptian television presenter Sarah Khalifa and 11 others have been sentenced to death by hanging after conviction on drug‑trafficking charges, according to state‑owned media. The sentence followed the court’s receipt of a religious opinion, a legal requirement in death‑penalty cases.
The nineteen‑year‑old defendants were said to have been part of a gang that imported raw materials for drug production and possessed illegal firearms and munitions. Authorities seized more than 750 kg (1,653 lbs) of narcotics.
Khalifa, 39, best known for her crime‑focused show "Mission Impossible," has denied the accusations. In a court appearance, she claimed no knowledge of drugs and that she was photographed with them only after being taken to the anti‑narcotics authority’s office.
The verdict is appealable, but the court’s confirmation came after seeking the grand mufti’s opinion. Amnesty International’s 2025 report highlighted that 492 death sentences were issued that year, with 23 executions carried out, raising concerns that many of the cases were for crimes that do not qualify as "intentional killing," the report noted.
This case has drawn international criticism over Egypt’s use of the death penalty for non‑violent offences, and calls for greater scrutiny of the legal process and fair trial standards.
