Egyptian television presenter sentenced to death for drug trafficking

On September 6, 2026, a Cairo court sentenced Egyptian television presenter Sara Khalifa and 11 co-defendants to death by hanging. The defendants were convicted of operating an organized criminal network dedicated to the production and trafficking of synthetic narcotics. The verdict was reached following mandatory consultation with Egypt’s Grand Mufti, a required legal step for capital cases in the country.

According to court documents, the syndicate was responsible for the supply of materials used to manufacture synthetic drugs. Authorities report that the investigation led to the seizure of over 750 kilograms of narcotics and raw materials. Additionally, law enforcement officials discovered illegal laboratories, weapons, and ammunition at locations linked to the criminal group. This high-profile case underscores the strict enforcement of anti-drug legislation in Egypt, where such offenses are punishable by death.

The case has garnered significant public attention due to Khalifa’s status as a prominent media personality. The trial proceedings confirmed the defendants' roles in establishing the illicit supply network, leading to the capital sentences handed down by the judiciary.