Iraq Baghdad: 28 dead as twin bombs rip through market

[Anthea]

Iraq Baghdad: 28 dead as twin bombs rip through market

At least 28 people have died in the Iraqi capital, Baghdad, in a double bombing claimed by so-called Islamic State (ISIS).

The explosions happened one after another in the busy al-Sinak market. More than 50 people were injured.

Police said a roadside bomb exploded near a car spare parts shop, then a suicide bomber detonated his device among the crowd that had gathered.

Baghdad has seen frequent attacks, often targeting Shia districts.

ISIS released a statement saying two of its militants had carried out the bombings wearing suicide vests.

The jihadist group is under pressure from an Iraqi army offensive further north in Mosul, the last major IS stronghold in the country.

Link to Full Article:

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-38476807

[Piling]

Erbil is in high safety alert for this evening and Sulaymaniah also, I guess. I don't know about Duhok which is always the quiet city of Kurdistan.

[Anthea]

Erbil is in high safety alert for this evening and Sulaymaniah also, I guess. I don't know about Duhok which is always the quiet city of Kurdistan.

UK is on high alert due to all the New Year celebrations

[Anthea]

New Year's Eve security tightened post-Berlin attack

Security at outdoor New Year's Eve events around the UK has been "modified" following the lorry attacks in Berlin and Nice this year.

In London - where 100,000 tickets have been sold to watch the fireworks - more armed officers will be deployed and concrete barriers will be in use.

There will also be more places around the city where vehicles will be banned.

Greater Manchester Police has said it will also step up crowd protection in the wake of the Berlin attack.

British Transport Police will "extend" its regular armed patrols across the nation's rail network, and there will also be armed officers on the London Underground.

Metropolitan Police Detective Superintendent Phil Langworthy said 3,000 officers will patrol the streets in London.

He added: "We will also have some covert tactics.

"Overtly there'll be a search regime in place at the fireworks, we will also have concrete barriers and a range of other tactics to reassure the public that they can come and have a safe and enjoyable event."

Police Scotland said there would be a "very visible police presence" at the Edinburgh Hogmanay street party.

Divisional commander Chief Superintendent Kenny MacDonald said: "You can approach these officers at any time if you require any form of assistance or have witnessed any form of suspicious activity."

Link to Full Article:

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-38473292