Dozens abducted in Iraq

GUNMEN in military uniforms kidnapped dozens of people yesterday from a major commercial area in Baghdad.

The attackers drove up to the al-Sanak area in about 10 sport utility vehicles and began rounding up shop owners and bystanders. Two police officers said 50 to 70 people were abducted, but the Interior Ministry declined to give a number. At least 25 people were released just hours later.

The al-Sanak area holds shops selling car parts, agricultural equipment and the small power generators that are ubiquitous in Baghdad owing to severe power shortages.