UN report: Iraq has executed 60 people in 2014 in possible 'miscarriages of justice'

BAGHDAD – The United Nations mission in Iraq says at least 60 people have been executed in the country so far in 2014, expressing concern over possible "miscarriages of justice."

In a report issued Sunday, the UN Assistance Mission in Iraq said the figure accounted for executions during the first nine months of 2014. The report expressed concern over the growing use of the death penalty by Iraqi authorities since its restoration in 2005.

Some 1,724 prisoners were awaiting execution as of August 2014, the report said, citing the Justice Ministry. Iraq primarily uses hanging as its method of execution. Death sentences are issued for a range of offences, including acts of terrorism.