RFE/RL says journalist murdered in Baghdad

Prague, Apr 6: A journalist from the US-funded Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty was found dead in Baghdad with gun shot wounds to her head and body, the broadcaster said today.

RFE/RL, which has its headquarters in Prague, said in a statement that Khamail Khalaf, a reporter for the radio's Arabic service, was last seen on April 3. Her body was found in western Baghdad yesterday.

''According to Iraqi official sources, Mrs Khamail was shot in the head and there were wounds on the body,'' the statement said.

''She was last seen on April 3, and her family was contacted from Mrs Khamail's mobile phone by an unidentified caller who claimed that Mrs Khamail was with him. There was no further communication,'' it said.

''Mrs Khamail had received threats before. Iraqi police continue to investigate the death.'' Khamail had reported for RFE/RL since 2004 on social and cultural affairs in Iraq. She worked previously for Iraqi television.

Reuters