Egyptian TV presenter arrested in connection with drug trafficking ring

Surveillance footage has revealed critical developments in the case of 33-year-old Egyptian TV presenter Sarah Khalifa, accused of leading a criminal gang specializing in the production and distribution of synthetic hashish, also known as "powdered drugs."

The surveillance footage, collected from cameras surrounding the apartment, shows the comings and goings of several individuals, some of whom were later arrested in connection with the criminal network.

According to sources familiar with the investigation, it is suspected that the apartment was being used as a manufacturing hub for the illicit drug. The public prosecution, in response to this revelation, has expanded the scope of its inquiry and called in witnesses for further questioning.

The prosecution's investigation has unearthed evidence of a wide-ranging drug manufacturing operation. The footage, which was carefully examined by authorities, allowed them to trace the activities of the suspects involved. Following this, the authorities sent the confiscated materials to a chemical laboratory for thorough analysis to identify the exact nature of the substances.

Khalifa, who is at the heart of the case, vehemently denied any connection to the seized drugs. During her questioning, she insisted that she had no knowledge of the drugs or the other individuals arrested in the case. “I don’t know anything about these drugs,” Khalifa said.

An Egyptian court responded by extending Khalifa’s detention, along with that of three other suspects, for another 15 days while the investigation continues. Additionally, a court ruling has been issued to freeze the suspects’ assets, including their bank accounts, as part of efforts to prevent further illicit activities.

In the raids that led to the arrests, security forces recovered an alarming 200kg of synthetic hashish, alongside various drug production tools, including blenders, sterilizers, and packaging equipment. Additionally, investigators seized gold jewelry, large sums of cash, and five luxury cars, which are believed to be proceeds from the illegal drug operation.

Authorities have estimated the total value of the seized drugs alone to exceed 420 million Egyptian pounds, making this one of the largest drug busts seen in Cairo in recent years.

The investigation is ongoing, with the public prosecution awaiting the results of the drug analysis. A detailed technical report from the chemical laboratory will be crucial in understanding the full scope of the illicit activities and the involvement of the suspects in the operation.