Iraq declares curfew in Baghdad

Baghdad, Sep 30: Iraq declared a curfew today in the capital Baghdad, ordering all cars off the streets and telling people to remain in their homes.

A statement from Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki's office said the curfew would remain in force until 6:00 a.m. 0700 hrs IST tomorrow. It gave no reason for the measure.

US and Iraqi forces have focused security efforts on the capital in the past few weeks. US commanders say Baghdad has seen a surge in violence in the past week with the start of the Islamic holy month of Ramadan.

Clashes and bombings have been frequent during that period.

Residents of the Adamiya neighbourhood in the north of the city said sounds of shooting and explosions could be heard around dusk yesterday. Police could not confirm clashes in the area.

The US military declined to comment on the curfew.

Reuters