World News

Mubarak hospitalized with heart problems

Former Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak was abruptly hospitalized April 12 for heart problems during an investigation over allegations of corruption and violence against protesters, reported state TV.

In a sign that his ailment might not be very serious, however, Justice Minister Mohammed el-Guindi said the former president was being questioned in the hospital.

The 82-year-old Mubarak was deposed Feb. 11 after 18 days of popular protests and has been under house arrest in the Red Sea resort of Sharm el-Sheikh for the last two months.

Dozens of demonstrators picketed the hospital, denouncing the president and carrying a sign reading "Here is the butcher." They scuffled briefly with supporters of Mubarak amid a massive security presence.

El-Guindi said Mubarak was being investigated over his role in the violence against protesters during the uprising in which more than 800 people died. The investigation into corruption charges would be carried out later by the Justice Ministry's anti-corruption department, he said. (AP)

Shukan ST: April 22, 2011

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