Iraqis take over security duties in Babel

BAGHDAD, Oct. 23 (UPI) -- The Multinational Force in Iraq turned over security responsibility for Babel province to Iraqi authorities Thursday in a ceremony at Al-Hella.

Babel is the 12th Iraqi province in which security responsibilities have been transferred to local leadership, KUNA, the Kuwait News Agency, reported.

Dozens of people have died in violent attacks that have plagued Babel, also known as "the triangle of death," although security officials noted a considerable decrease in the number of violent acts, KUNA said.