EGYPT

Mubarak Fined for Cutting Internet

Total of $91 million for causing damage to economy.

An Egyptian judge fined former President Hosni Mubarak and other officials a total of $91 million Saturday for cutting off Internet and cell phone service during the protests that would eventually cause force him from power. Egyptian state television reported Saturday that Mubarak had been fined about $33.6 million, while former Prime Minister Ahmed Nazif faced penalties of $6.7 million and former Interior Minister Habib Adli had about $50.4 million for “causing damage to the national economy.” Political analysts called the ruling a “watershed” since it sends a message to other dictators that restricting access to virtual media will not be tolerated. It was the first court hearing for Mubarak, who a judge on Tuesday ordered to stand trial for the deaths of protesters.