from: http://www.azcentral.com/news/articles/0410war-arabreax10.html

Inactivity vs. looters is criticized

Groups demand soldiers help out

By Paul Richter and Mark Magnier
Los Angeles Times
Apr. 10, 2003 12:00 AM

BASRA, Iraq - Though they are committed to restoring stability in Iraq in the months ahead, U.S. and British troops are coming under growing criticism for failing to stop the looting and rioting spreading across the lawless country.

International aid groups, the United Nations and Iraqis themselves are demanding that the 125,000 coalition troops intervene to stop the disturbances that are inflicting injuries, destroying property and disrupting the efforts of overwhelmed aid workers and hospitals.

Military officials insist they cannot spare the troops while hostilities continue, though they plan to assign some forces to peacekeeping as reinforcements arrive. This presence may exceed 210,000 troops, one Pentagon official said Wednesday.

"We don't need food or water. What we lack is safety and protection," said Dr. Janan Peter al-Sabah, head of surgery at Basra Teaching Hospital. "Our message to the coalition troops is to take responsibility for the security of the people, of the homes, of the facilities."

As it became clear that Saddam Hussein's regime had fallen, jubilant crowds in Baghdad and Basra pillaged government offices, emptied shops and schools and robbed homes. They made off with mattresses, air-conditioners, U.N. vehicles and copper wiring.

Many residents say they are afraid to leave their homes for fear of losing their possessions. Some aid organizations have temporarily halted operations because of the dangers that have supplanted bombs and artillery shells.

U.S. and British military officials have ordered troops to protect themselves first and remain focused on destroying the remaining pockets of resistance. They say that troops fresh from combat are not well suited for a shift to police duties.