Iraqi civilians demand justice

Compensation claims from families of the murdered
Families of Iraqi civilians murdered by coalition armed forces are demanding justice after the British government refused to launch an independent enquiry into claims that British troops acted unlawfully, in contradiction of European Human Rights laws covering the right to freedom from death, torture and degrading treatment.

The High Court is deciding whether a judicial review should be launched following claims that British troops did not show dure care and attention, killing civilians unnecessarily and unlawfully in the process of peace keeping.

Six cases have been brought before the High Court to test the system. Should a review be called, it could open the floodgates for claims for compensation from the families of the victims. In these six cases, all were murdered while in their homes, as passers-by in the street or while driving their vehicles.

Other cases bring to light claims that British troops, as well as the Americans, were responsible for acts of torture. One victim, Kifah Taha Al-Mutari, a hotel worker, claims his kidneys were damaged due to the severe beatings he received while in custody.

Another hotel worker, Baha Mousa, was beaten to death during detention.

John Ashtead
LONDON,   UNITED KINGDOM