Iraqi checkpoints no obstacle for insurgents flush with cash

[Barrett808]

Source: AFP

Iraqi checkpoints no obstacle for insurgents flush with cash
by Benoit Finck

BAGHDAD (AFP) - As if the daily suicide bombings and kidnappings are not enough, US forces and their Iraq counterparts are battling a hidden but no less lethal danger -- corruption.

At a recent meeting of US commanders, Iraqi security chiefs and local officials, frank words were exchanged on the ease with which insurgents can slip through checkpoints as long as they have the money to pay.

So what's it worth to render an Iraqi security checkpoint a waste of time? About 200 dollars (148 euros), according to one local official.

"No terrorist goes through the checkpoints," Iraq General Faisal Kassem Elewi boasted during the meeting in the southern Baghdad neighbourhood of Rashid, on the edge of one of the most dangerous parts of Iraq.

"If you pay 200 dollars it's OK," muttered the official beside him, apparently frustrated with the efforts of Iraqi troops in the area.

Read more: http://news.yahoo.com/s/afp/20070624/wl_mideast_afp/iraqunrestcorruption

[rodeodance]

1. corruption is nothing new in that war!

[krispos42]

2. When the wall is strong, bribe the gatekeepers

Much faster and cheaper than a siege engine. I think the Mongol hordes learned this when getting past the Great Wall of China a few hundred years ago.

[Kagemusha]

5. When that failed they paid Chinese engineers to destroy them

That works too.

[sutz12]

3. Well, at least they are realizing one part of the American political system. nt

[bahrbearian]

4. so your missing Tax dollars at work?

what goes around ,goes around

[rec_report]

6. '...a hidden but no less lethal danger -- corruption'

The entire Bush regime lives for it and banks on it.
:rofl:
Polar Bear