Tuesday, March 29, 2011

Dozens killed in attack on Tikrit council

Dozens killed in attack on Tikrit council

Gunmen in Iraqi military uniforms execute hostages and councillors before blowing themselves up in Tikrit attack

March 29, 2011

At least 45 people have been killed by gunmen wearing military uniforms and suicide bomb belts who stormed a local government headquarters in Saddam Hussein's hometown of Tikrit.

A government spokesman said that among those who died were 15 hostages who were executed before their captors blew themselves up.

The attackers set off car bombs, explosive belts and hand grenades as they stormed into the building and took hostages, according to local officials. Among the dead were three provincial council members and an Iraqi journalist.

A further 65 people were wounded during the siege, which was eventually brought to an end by security forces after several hours. Seven gunmen are also believed to have been killed.

Salahuddin province media adviser Muhammad al-Asi said the attackers shot their hostages in the head as security forces closed in. Three local council members were among them.

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