Law and order returned to Iraq yesterday with the execution of three convicted murderers. Death was by hanging.

According to the Courier-Mail

The three, believed to be members of Al-Qaeda linked extremist group Ansar al-Sunna, were sentenced in May for killing and kidnapping policemen and raping Iraqi women.

"This is the highest punishment against people who were killers and were executed despite protests from the international community," a spokesman said. "It will help deter criminals from committing crimes."

The U.N. and human rights groups had objected to the punishment.

Interestingly, Iraqi President Talibani also opposes the death penalty and refused to sign the death warrants. Apparently it makes no difference whether he signs or not; they kill 'em anyway.