26.01.12 Iraq Focus Two bomb attacks leave 13 dead

Iraqi officials say that 13 people have been killed in two separate bomb attacks. According to reports, two brothers - both police officers – and at least eight of their relatives were killed following a house bombing in Musayyib, south of Baghdad, which is predominantly populated by Shi'a Muslims.

The Musayyib attack is said to have taken place at 0400 (0100 GMT), when several roadside bombs surrounding the house were detonated. According to AFP, the two dead policemen were Ahmed and Jihad Zuwaiyin. Six children are also believed to have been killed. Four people were reported to be injured and six homes nearby were also damaged.

In a similar but separate bomb attack, three people were also killed in Kirkuk. As well as the three fatalities, five others were injured.

Attacks of this nature have risen since US troops withdrew from Iraq at the end of last year.

Speaking to AFP, Police Brigadier General Adil Zain al-Abidine said the attack in the northern city of Kirkuk was caused by a motorcycle bomb parked near a primary school in the city centre.

These newest outbreaks of violence come amid a politically and socially fragile situation in Iraq, which has been made worse by governmental in-fighting and volatility.

Sources: AFP, Reuters, BBC News

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