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Reports deepen Iraq abuse scandal

Abu Ghraib - More abuse controversy
Abu Ghraib - More abuse controversy

There are fresh reports from the US which suggest a deepening of the prisoner scandal at the Abu Ghraib prison.

A leading newspaper, the Washington Post, alleges that abuse took place at the complex during a visit by the top US commander in Iraq.

Its online edition claims that military records show Lieutenant-General Ricardo Sanchez was present during interrogations.

Speaking at a Senate hearing last week, Lt-Gen Sanchez said he was taking full responsibility for what happened at Abu Ghraib.

But he denied any prior knowledge of the abuses.

In Britain, the Independent on Sunday has revealed more claims of prisoner abuse alleged to have been carried out by members of the Queen's Lancashire Regiment.

The latest images seem to show detainees being threatened with dogs.

It reports that the High Court is to consider claims the regiment carried out systematic torture.