Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD)

DATE=4/1/2003

TYPE=CORRESPONDENT REPORT

TITLE=IRAQ/CHECKPOINTS (S)

NUMBER=2-301600

BYLINE=SCOTT BOBB

DATELINE=DOHA

CONTENT=

VOICED AT:

INTRO: Coalition commanders say the shooting deaths of eight Iraqi civilians at checkpoints in central Iraq in the past two-days are regrettable, but officials blame the shootings on what they say are terrorist-like tactics by the Iraqi military. Correspondent Scott Bobb reports from coalition headquarters in Qatar.

TEXT: Deputy operations director Brigadier General Vincent Brooks says the deaths are a result of heightened awareness since a suicide bomber killed four U-S soldiers at a checkpoint Saturday. But he says coalition troops remain under orders to avoid civilian casualties.

/// BROOKS ACT ///

We have not had a change in rules of engagement in recent days. There is increased vigilance because of the tactics that we have seen used by the regime and the death squads that are out there.

/// END ACT ///

General Brooks said examples of these tactics include multiple vehicles that approach checkpoints at high speed and the use of civilians as human shields.

The general indicated coalition forces are adapting by exercising more caution at checkpoints and by using wire fencing to slow down speeding vehicles.

Iraqi leaders say about 500 civilians have been killed since the war began 13-days ago. Coalition officials say they do not have civilian casualty figures, but doubt that they are that high. (SIGNED)

NEB/SB/ALW/MEM/RAE