Suicide bomb attack on Iraq army recruits kills 51

Baghdad, Aug 17: At least 51 people have been killed and more than 100 others wounded in a suicide bomb attack outside an army recruitment center in Baghdad on Tuesday, Aug 17, officials said.

The recruits were gathered in an open area next to Maidan Square in central Baghdad as they waited to be let through the main gates in small groups, according to two Iraqi police officials who spoke on condition of anonymity.

At least three soldiers were among the dead and eight among the wounded, the police officials said.

The site receives about 250 new recruits each week as Iraqi security forces try to bolster their ranks to prepare for the US military"s looming withdrawal after seven years of war.

Iraqi security have been frequent targets of insurgents in recent months as the United States reduces its troop strength in the country.

OneIndia News