Activists expect dismissal of Mubarak charges

THE trial of Hosni Mubarak resumed yesterday amid speculation that a recent acquittal of policemen tried for killing Egyptian protesters could be a prelude to the dismissal of charges against the ousted leader.

Mubarak faces charges of complicity in the killing of more than 800 protesters during last year’s uprising that toppled his 29-year regime.

The 83-year-old ailing Mubarak was brought by helicopter to the Cairo courthouse from a hospital where he is held in custody. He was taken into the defendants’ cage on a gurney, wearing sunglasses and covered by a blanket.