Baghdad bombings kill 16 Iraqis

Iraqi officials today said 16 people were killed in two bombings in Baghdad that targeted a petrol station and a nearby market.

Just 20 minutes separated the bombings, which took place yesterday in the capital’s eastern New Baghdad area.

Three Iraqis were killed after a bomb exploded next to a petrol station, while 13 more died when a suicide car bomber intending to attack a Shiite mosque was prevented by barricades, and chose the market instead, said police Lt. Thair Mahmoud.

“As he couldn’t get through (the barricades), he turned his car and slammed it into nearby shops and stalls,” said Capt. Mohammed Jassim.

Kindi Hospital medic Rahim al-Waili confirmed that 16 people were killed in the attacks, while more than 70 were wounded.