BRITAIN’S army said the death of an Iraqi detainee in Basra had cast a “dark shadow” over its reputation, after an inquiry found he suffered “gratuitous violence” at the hands of soldiers.

British soldiers could face a fresh prosecution over the brutal death of an Iraqi civilian after a scathing report today condemned the “shameful” abuse of prisoners in UK custody.

An innocent Iraqi civilian died in British Army custody after suffering “an appalling episode of serious gratuitous violence”, a public inquiry concluded today.

THE only soldier convicted over the death of Iraqi hotel worker Baha Mousa yesterday described widespread abuse of prisoners by British troops, including an officer.