US military hands over last detention centre in Iraq

US military hands over last detention centre in Iraq

www.bbc.co.uk

The Iraqi authorities have taken charge of 1,600 of the 1,800 detainees at Camp Cropper, near Baghdad's airport.

The US military has been asked to hold the remainder, some of them alleged members of al-Qaeda in Iraq.

Earlier this week, 26 former members of Saddam Hussein's regime, including his deputy PM Tariq Aziz, were transferred.

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One of the last remaining detention centers in Iraq has been handed over to Iraqi authorities. Many of the inmates currently incarcerated at the prison known as, Camp Cropper, are high value and members of Saddam Hussein's regime. One in particular, is Saddam's former deputy, Tariq Azziz. He has been tried, judged, and is serving his prison term. Alleged members of Al-Qaeda in Iraq are housed at this compound as well.

On a side note, not all detainees have been handed over. Sixteen-hundred of the remaining eighteen-hundred inmates are now in Iraqi custody. However, two-hundred of the remaining prisoners will remain in US custody for the time being. One in particular as mentioned in the article is Saddam Hussein's ex-defense minister, Sultan Hashim al-Taie.

From what I have gathered the US government has made not statements as to why the US continues to have Iraqi prisoners in their custody. Perhaps, the former defense minister from the Saddam Regime is being held to consult on the Iranian issue. We must remember the Iraqis fought Iran for 10 years during the 80's and his incite could prove useful to his captors?

With this recent development it seems President Obama's exit strategy is moving along as scheduled and without a hitch. More over another page of contention regarding the US invasion and occupation of Iraq is being turned as well. We all remember the scandal at Abu Ghraib and widespread allegations of mistreatment, abuse, and torture by the US military in operation of these facilities. However, given the history of some of these detainees and their association with one of the most brutal regimes in history; are the Iraqi authorities going to treat them any different and will they receive a fair trial and basic human rights?

Everyone regardless of innocence or guilt should receive a trial and the opportunity to meet their accusers. Hopefully, the fledgling government and judiciary will make every effort to see that happens when dealing with these men, and essential human rights are adhered to during their incarceration.

www.bbc.co.uk
(visit the link for the full news article)



[edit on 15-7-2010 by Jakes51]