Saddam Hussein in Iraqi custody

Saddam Hussein and several of his henchmen also detained have been transferred into Iraqi legal custody, world media informed.

The former dictator is due to appear in court on Thursday, accused of genocide and crimes against humanity, formulated in 12 charges. The court trial will be broadcast live by both TV and radio.

Iraq's new Prime Minister Iyad Allawi pledged that Hussein would receive a "just and fair trial".

The former Iraqi dictator could face the death penalty if convicted after the Iraqi cabinet said it was reinstating the death penalty, Iraqi Minister of Justice told Italy's La Repubblica Daily.

However, Saddam Hussein will remain in a US-run jail because the Iraqi government lacks a suitable prison, Iraq's new Prime Minister Iyad Allawi said adding that he would be allowed a foreign lawyer if he asked for one.

The other Iraqis being charged include former Deputy Prime Minister Tariq Aziz and Ali Hassan al-Majid, also known as Chemical Ali. Former Vice President Taha Yassin Ramadan and two of Saddam's half-brothers are also on the list.