Iraq govt says sending reinforcements to Kerbala

BAGHDAD, Aug 28 (Reuters) Iraq is sending security forces from other provinces to the holy Shi'ite city of Kerbala after deadly clashes erupted during a major religious festival today the Interior Ministry spokesman said.

Brigadier-General Abdul Kareem Khalaf said Interior Ministry airborne and ground troops from Baghdad were on their way to the southern city. In addition, security forces from nearby provinces had been sent.

''I expect that in the coming few hours, the security forces will be in control and will arrest all the criminals and bring them to justice,'' Khalaf said on Iraqiya state television.

REUTERS LPB BST1924