Lawyer says Saddam handed over to Iraqis

Dubai, Dec 29: Saddam Hussein has been handed over by US forces to Iraqi government custody, his lawyers today said in an apparent step towards his execution.

''I understand they have handed him over,'' said one defence lawyer who declined to give his name.

Another lawyer said that US officials had asked him to pick up the personal effects of the former Iraqi president who has been sentenced to death.

''The American side called me and asked me to pick up the personal effects of the president and Barzan al-Tikriti,'' said Khalil al-Dulaimi, referring to Saddam's half brother, who has also been sentenced to death.

REUTERS