Security to be tight for Mubarak verdict

CAIRO, May 31 (UPI) -- Thousands of Egyptian police, aided by tanks, dogs and metal detectors will be on hand for the verdict in former President Hosni Mubarak's trial, officials say.

The security plan was approved Wednesday by the Interior Department, al-Masry al-Youm reported, citing sources. The court is scheduled to deliver its verdict Saturday.

Mubarak could face the death penalty if he is convicted of ordering the killing of protesters during the uprising last year that ended in his ouster. Former Interior Minister Habib al-Adly and six other security officials are on trial with him, while Mubarak, his sons and a businessman are also charged with corruption.

The 84-year-old Mubarak is in poor health and has been held in a hospital during the trial, brought to court by helicopter. The security plan includes a heavy police presence on roads between the International Medical Center and the court and along the routes other defendants will take.