Iraqi deputy oil minister kidnapped

BAGHDAD (AFP) – Gunmen dressed in Iraqi security uniforms kidnapped Deputy Oil Minister Abdel Jabar al-Wagaa from the compound of the state oil marketing company in Baghdad on Tuesday, an official said.

“A gang of armed men dressed in Iraqi security uniforms broke into the compound of the State Oil Marketing Organisation and kidnapped several people, including Deputy Oil Minister Wagaa,” oil ministry spokesman Asim Jihad said.

Jihad said the daylight raid on the company’s compound which also houses residential quarters for its employees took place soon after the closing of the offices.

Oil Minister Hussein Shahristani told state-run television that an investigation had been launched and some hostages were even “freed.”

“At 4:00 pm, a gang wearing Iraqi security uniforms broke into the compound and kidnapped five employees, including Wagaa,” the minister said.

AFP