Horror as journalist and his son shot dead north of Baghdad

Reporters Without Borders expressed revulsion at the murder of journalist Jassim Al Qais of Iraqi daily Al Siyada who was shot dead on 22 June along with his son as they travelled on a road 10 kilometres north of Baghdad. "This vile act reminds us that Iraq is the world's most dangerous country for journalists", the press freedom organisation said. Fifty-nine journalists have died since the start of the conflict in March 2003. "The state of security in the country is so appalling that armed men can murder a journalist in broad daylight. In this way, the killers gradually stifle news and information in the country," it added. "We point out yet again that journalists are neutral observers whose work should be protected whatever their nationality or the media they work for." Reporters Without Borders' correspondent in Baghdad said the journalist was at the wheel of his Kia when armed men opened fire killing him and his son on the spot. The reason for the murder is not yet known.