The Cost Of Security Contracts In Iraq

(Image from CBS)

Over $6B Spent On Iraq Security Contracts -- CBS News

Report From U.S. Inspector General For Reconstruction Highlights Huge Personnel Costs

(CBS/AP) No one knows for sure, but auditors think the United States has paid well over $6 billion to private security companies who have been guarding diplomats, troops, Iraqi officials and reconstruction workers in Iraq.

The money amounts to about 12 percent of the $50 billion Americans are paying for reconstruction in the country, said Special Inspector General for Iraq Reconstruction Stuart Bowen.

The figure, included in a report being released by Bowen's office Thursday, is likely to be taken as the most authoritative accounting so far of what it has cost the U.S. government to provide private security since 2003 in the violence-plagued nation.

It included bodyguards for diplomats and top commanders and guards for U.S. military bases, as well as for military supply convoys, contractors, subcontractors and others supporting the U.S. mission and military.

Read more ....

My Comment: That's it ?!?!?

Update: $6 Billion on Iraq Mercs is Just the Start: Report -- The Danger Room