Verdict set as Mumbai attacks trial concludes

The November 2008 attacks left 174 people dead, including nine gunmen

The trial of the man alleged to be the sole surviving gunman in the 2008 Mumbai (Bombay) attacks has concluded, with a verdict expected in May.

Pakistani national Mohammad Ajmal Amir Qasab, 22, faces 86 charges, including waging war on India, murder and possessing explosives.

In all, 610 witnesses testified during the case, which began last March.

The November 2008 attacks left 174 people dead, including nine gunmen and soured ties between India and Pakistan.

The defendant, who remained quiet throughout the proceedings, simply nodded as the judge told him he would pass judgement on 3 May.

The judge will also give his verdict on two Indian men - Fahim Ansari and Sabahuddin Ahmed - who are accused of helping the gunmen plan the attacks.

Pakistan arrests

Speaking outside the court, special public prosecutor Ujjwal Nikam said: "The trial has ended and the prosecution has presented the links between Kasab, [banned militant group] Lashkar-e-Taiba and the Pakistani army."

The attacks affected ties between India and Pakistan

The prosecution are seeking the death penalty for Mr Qasab.

He originally denied the charges against him but in July, in a dramatic outburst in court, he admitted his role and asked to be hanged.

His plea was not accepted and the trial continued.

In November, the main lawyer representing Mr Qasab - who was arrested on the first day of the attacks - was removed from the case. The judge said he was wasting time.

After initial denials, Pakistan acknowledged that Mr Qasab was one of its citizens and that the attacks had been partially planned on its territory.

Late last year, Pakistan charged seven people in connection with the attacks, including the suspected mastermind Zaki-ur-Rehman Lakhvi, who is alleged to head Lashkar-e-Taiba.