Tuesday, April 03, 2007
Armed militias resurface in Baghdad
Security
(Azzaman) - Armed militia groups have resurfaced in Baghdad despite the continuing military operations to purge the city of armed gangs and insurgents. Joint Iraqi-U.S. military operations are continuing as more and more U.S. troops arrive in the city. But the heavy presence of troops on the ground does not seem to act as an effective deterrent to scare off militias and other armed groups.
Militias groups, belonging to political factions which are part of the ruling government, now operate openly in major Baghdad neighborhoods such as Suala, Doura, Baghdad Jadida and Kamp Sara. Eyewitnesses say the militias have their patrols and road blocks in these areas and criminal actions like the kidnapping of women and children are taking place in several parts of the city. The eyewitnesses refused to be named for fear of retribution. They said Iraqi troops assigned to control these districts are turning a blind eye to militia activities.
Militias groups, belonging to political factions which are part of the ruling government, now operate openly in major Baghdad neighborhoods such as Suala, Doura, Baghdad Jadida and Kamp Sara. Eyewitnesses say the militias have their patrols and road blocks in these areas and criminal actions like the kidnapping of women and children are taking place in several parts of the city. The eyewitnesses refused to be named for fear of retribution. They said Iraqi troops assigned to control these districts are turning a blind eye to militia activities.
Labels: Baghdad, Baghdad Jadida, Doura, Kamp Sara, militias, Suala
