An Egyptian court has sentenced television presenter and social media personality Sara Khalifa to death by hanging following her conviction on charges related to manufacturing and trafficking synthetic drugs.
Khalifa, who owns a beauty clinic and previously worked as a television host, has more than 2.5 million followers on Instagram. She was arrested in Cairo in April 2025. Her television career included appearances on several Egyptian channels, and she hosted a crime program called "Mission Impossible."
According to Egyptian media reports, Khalifa is among 12 defendants sentenced to death in the case, which involved a total of 28 people facing charges. Nine additional defendants received life sentences, while seven were acquitted.
Prosecutors alleged that members of the group operated an organized network for producing and distributing synthetic drugs. Some members were responsible for importing raw materials, while others handled manufacturing and distribution. During the investigation, authorities seized more than 750 kilograms of synthetic drugs and raw materials. The defendants also faced charges of illegally possessing weapons and ammunition.
The case reportedly relied on testimony from 20 witnesses along with digital and technical evidence, including messages, photographs, and videos that prosecutors said documented the criminal activity. Authorities also imposed restrictions on the defendants' assets and bank accounts.
