Iraqi forces set up roadblocks, search for missing three US citizens

Baghdad: Iraqi security forces set up checkpoints in southeast Baghdad and sent out helicopter search parties on Monday after confirming three US citizens had gone missing.
Media reported three US contractors or trainers had been kidnapped with their translator in the Dora neighbourhood on Friday. But a senior police officer said authorities were still not certain what had caused their disappearance.
Two Iraqi army helicopters were seen hovering over Dora while police SUVs patrolled the streets, residents said.
Dubai-based news channel Al Arabiya said on Sunday that three US nationals had been kidnapped with their translator.
Citing its own sources, it said the Americans were "contractors or trainers" employed by US companies at Baghdad airport.
The US State Department said on Sunday it was working with Iraqi authorities to locate Americans reported missing, without confirming that they had been kidnapped.
"We have no clear indication about the circumstances of their disappearance," a senior police officer said on condition of anonymity.
At least 26 Qatari hunters kidnapped last month in the southern desert by unknown militants have not yet been found. In September, 18 Turks taken in Baghdad by an armed group were released following several weeks in detention.