Iraq imposes curfew in tense Shi'ite town

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The Iraqi government imposed a curfew in the tense southern town of Amara on Monday after fierce battles between Shi'ite militias and police last week.

Clashes between Shi'ite militia and Iraqi security forces, mainly fuelled by tribal divisions, killed at least 25 people last week in Amara, which was handed over by British troops to Iraqi security forces two months ago.

"We have imposed the curfew due to the security situation there," Defence Ministry spokesman Mohammed al-Askari said.

Askari said the Defence Ministry was redeploying the army and the curfew, which will remain in force until further notice, would allow soldiers to control Amara without problems.

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