US to widen Iraqi prison abuse probe

Rumsfeld wrote in a memo released by the Pentagon that he must be notified personally of the death of an enemy prisoner of war, civilian internee or anyone else in military custody.

In a move apparently aimed at preserving evidence, he also directed that remains not be washed before being placed in a clean body bag, and that any objects with the body other than weapons or ammunition be "left undisturbed."

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Lt. Gen. Ricardo Sanchez, who commands US-led forces in Iraq, asked to be removed as the officer who reviews the ongoing investigation by Maj. Gen. George Fay in order to allow his own conduct to be scrutinized, defence officials said.