BAGHDAD, Jan. 16 (UPI) -- The U.S. military says it is examining alleged cases of abuse of prisoners at detention centers in Iraq, the BBC reported Friday.
U.S. commander Lt. Gen. Ricardo Sanchez ordered the investigation after incidents were reported at an unnamed coalition facility, the military said in a statement, giving no details about the extent of the alleged abuse.
"The coalition is committed to treating all persons under its control with dignity, respect and humanity," the statement said, adding the investigation would be carried out in a thorough and professional manner.
U.S.-led forces are holding at least 10,000 prisoners in Iraq and have faced criticism on the issue from tribal and community leaders, the BBC said.
International human rights groups allege thousands of detainees are being held without charge in often overcrowded and unsanitary conditions.
Three U.S. soldiers were discharged for mistreating Iraqi prisoners of war at the Camp Bucca detention camp in southern Iraq last May. An internal inquiry found soldiers had thrown prisoners down and kicked them in the head, groin and abdomen.
