Egypt's former interior minister sentenced to 12 years in jail

Cairo, May 5: Egypt's former interior minister, Habib al-Adly, who was face of the crackdown on pro-democracy protesters during the mass uprising that ousted president Hosni Mubarak, has been sentenced to 12 years in jail for money laundering and profiteering.

Al-Adly became the first top official of the former regime to be sentenced. He is also facing trial for ordering the use of live ammunition against unarmed protester and if convicted could face the gallows, al Jazeera reported.

His fate was closely watched by the public as he was one of the most controversial and hated members of the erstwhile Mubarak regime.

Almost two dozen other ministers and officials have been detained since Mubarak's ouster on February 11.

His testimony and conviction on opening fire on protesters could ultimately lead to trial of the toppled president.

PTI