Three Iraqis were killed in separate clashes in Baghdad and Basra on 4-5 October as former Iraqi soldiers gathered in the two cities to collect payment from the US authorities. The deaths occurred after scores of former soldiers broke away from the queues to protest against the lack of payment. Shots were exchanged in the ensuing clashes, although there are conflicting reports as to who fired first. Two Iraqis were killed and many more injured in Baghdad. Two soldiers were also injured during the clashes in the capital. In Basra, a UK soldier shot dead an armed Iraqi man after hearing gunshots during a protest. UK troops attempted to disperse the crowds using rubber bullets (MEED 2:10:03).