A Cairo court sentenced Sarah Khalifa, 39, and 11 others to death by hanging on 5/9. They were convicted of drug production and trafficking in a large-scale case, according to official Egyptian media reports.

The Al-Ahram newspaper identified the group as an organized crime gang. They specialized in acquiring raw materials for drug production by importing manufacturing ingredients from abroad, with the intent to traffic. The group also illegally possessed and carried weapons and ammunition.

Authorities seized over 750 kg of drugs and raw materials. Investigators discovered two apartments used as laboratories, along with unlicensed firearms and ammunition.

The verdict followed the court's consultation with the religious authority of the Grand Mufti of Egypt. This is a mandatory procedure under Egyptian law for death penalty cases.

The defendants retain the right to appeal the ruling.

Sarah Khalifa. Photo: The Sun

In a separate case, Khalifa and several others were sentenced to an additional 5 years in prison. This case involved the kidnapping and assault of a young man.

Khalifa is best known for hosting "Mission Impossible", a program that addresses issues related to security and crime. Beyond her media career, she owns a cosmetic surgery clinic and a production company specializing in organizing parties and events.

Egypt applies the death penalty for intentional murder, terrorism, certain rape offenses, and drug trafficking.

The Egyptian Commission for Human Rights and Freedoms reported that 541 death sentences were issued in the country in 2025.

By Hai Thu (Source: Guardian)