Iraqi group says 490 protesters killed since October

Iraq’s semi-official human rights commission said Saturday at least 490 protesters have been killed in Baghd and sourn cities in nearly three months of anti-government rallies. Iraq has been roiled by protests since Oct. 1 in which demonstrators have taken to streets to decry corruption, poor services and a lack of jobs. y have also called for an end to political system imposed after 2003 U.S.-led invasion. mass uprisings prompted resignation of former Prime Minister el Abdul-Mahdi late last month. protesters demand an independent candidate to hold post.

leerless protests — most serious challenge for ruling class in over a dece — were met with a violent crackdown by security forces. y dispersed crowds with live fire, tear gas and sonic bombs, leing to fatalities.

Faisal Abdullah, a member of semi-official Human Rights Commission, said 490 killed include 33 activists “assassinated” in targeted killings. More than 22,000 have been injured.

Abdullah said 56 protesters remain missing after reports y were abducted. Ar 12 have been released, he said, quoting data recorded by his group, Iraqi government and a committee looking into abduction linked to country's Interior Ministry.

Human Rights Commission doesn't assign blame for violence.

United Nations has said it received credible allegations of deliberate killings, abductions and arbitrary detentions carried out by unkwn armed men described as ‘militia,’ ‘unkwn third parties’ and ‘armed entities.' "

Iraqi politicians have warned of infiltrators seeking to co-opt and sabot largely peaceful movement.