Sarah Khalifa sentenced to death by hanging for role in large-scale drug trafficking network
Cairo's Criminal Court sentenced Egyptian television presenter Sarah Khalifa to death by hanging and a fine of 500,000 Egyptian pounds for her role in an organized drug trafficking network. Khalifa, 39, was one of 12 defendants convicted in the case, which involved importing raw materials to manufacture synthetic narcotics and possessing unlicensed firearms. Prosecutors alleged the group divided responsibilities for sourcing, production, storage, and distribution. The investigation resulted in the seizure of more than 750 kilograms of synthetic narcotics and raw materials. The court's decision followed a mandatory consultation with Egypt's Grand Mufti. Khalifa, known for hosting the crime show "Mission Impossible," has consistently denied the charges. She stated she had never smoked a cigarette in her life and insisted she was innocent. Her lawyer, Mohamed El-Gendy, confirmed she will sign appeal papers against the death sentence. While 12 people received death sentences, nine other defendants were sentenced to life imprisonment and seven were acquitted. Two defendants remain at large.
Sources
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TV star Sarah Khalifa faces death penalty in Egypt — what comes next?
Euronews.com
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TV presenter among 12 sentenced to death in Egypt drugs case
BBC
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Egyptian TV presenter among 12 sentenced to death for drug crime
theguardian.com
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Egyptian TV presenter Sarah Khalifa sentenced to death in drugs case
Al Jazeera
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Former crime show host sentenced to death in drug trafficking case
Syracuse.com