Iraq corruption panel moves forward on oil

BAGHDAD, Sept. 18 (UPI) -- The acting head of Iraq’s Public Integrity Commission said allegations against oil, electricity and other quality of life sectors will be investigated first.

“The commission must investigate three main cases which are very important to the country,” said Moussa Faraj, acting chief of the PIC, whose former head is in the United States and resigned amidst scandal.

The Al Adala newspaper reports the commission will look at money seized from former Saddam Hussein officials; U.S. money that has been unaccounted for; and the Oil for Food program.

Radhi al-Radhi, the former head of the commission, left suddenly for the United States last week after rumors he had cases pending against top Iraq officials. He also complained of death threats. Iraqi officials accuse Radhi himself of being corrupt.

He has since resigned but remained in the United States.