Unofficial Iraqi sources told Al Bawaba Wednesday that Abed Hamoud al-Tikriti, presidential secretary of former leader Saddam Hussein died two days ago while in US custody.
Iraqi security officials contacted by Al Bawaba declined to comment on the report, but have not denied it either.
Al-Tikriti was taken into custody on 18 June, 2003. Abed Hamoud was considered one of Saddam's closest aides, and controlled access to the president. He was said to have directed matters of state and handed down many of the ousted regime's orders. Upon his capture, the US authorities claimed Abed Hamoud possessed vital information about Iraq's alleged WMD. Since his detention, reports in the Arabic press have claimed he was tortured by US investigators to pressure him to provide information on weapons development programs. (Albawaba.com)
© 2004 Al Bawaba (www.albawaba.com)
