Iraqi death squads gunning down Baathists

BAGHDAD, Dec. 19 (UPI) -- Retaliatory assassinations by Iraqi death squads are on the rise, the Times of London said Friday, with Baath party members frequent targets.

The attacks are expected to be stepped up following the capture of ousted Iraqi dictator Saddam Hussein.

The Times identified more than a dozen prominent former regime officials slain in recent months. Police confirm the number has been growing.

In most instances, the killers arrive in new, unmarked vehicles -- cars in Baghdad, motorcycles in Najaf -- and wait outside the home or office of the intended target.

The gunmen then shoot their victim a number of times before disappearing.