Iraq police get 'counterfeit-proof' uniforms

Iraqi police are being issued with new uniforms to stop death squads dressing up as members of the security forces to commit sectarian murders.

The new kit includes camouflage dress similar to that used by the US military which is difficult to counterfeit.

Officials say many attacks are carried out by impostors in police uniforms, although critics say some Shia police collaborate with Shia militiamen.

Thousands of people have been killed in sectarian violence in Iraq since 2003.

Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki has vowed to take action against the militias, but correspondents say there has been little to show for his pledge.

Newly-garbed police paraded in front of Interior Minister Jawad al-Bolani at a ceremony at a police compound in Baghdad.

"These new garments will not be counterfeited," Mr Bolani promised.

The US general responsible for training Iraq's police welcomed the new uniforms.

"This is a great day for Iraq," said Gen Joseph Peterson.

Read the rest at the BBC

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