Verdict in Bo Xilai case expected within days but an appeal is likely

The Jinan court hearing the case of disgraced Politburo member Bo Xilai is expected to hand down its verdict this weekend, a source with direct knowledge of the case said.

The source, who declined to be named, said it was unlikely that the verdict would bring an end to China's most sensational scandal in decades, as Bo would probably lodge an appeal.

Bo, 64, is charged with bribery, embezzlement and abuse of power. He rejected the accusations and struck a defiant, almost accusatory, stance throughout his five-day trial at Jinan's Intermediate People's Court, in Shandong province, which ended on August 26.

The source said the verdict would probably be delivered on Sunday - the mainland begins three days of holiday for the Mid-Autumn Festival tomorrow.

Prosecutors linked Bo to almost 27 million yuan (HK$34 million) in bribes and embezzlement. He faces a minimum of 10 years in jail or even the death penalty. The prosecution pressed for a severe punishment, citing Bo's lack of remorse.

"The defendant's crimes are extremely serious," the prosecutors said during the trial. "It must be dealt with severely according to the law."