Baghdad - Security was stepped up Saturday in and around Baghdad to protect Shiite pilgrims thronging this weekend to the shrine of Imam Mousa al-Kazhem in the capital's north.

Three years ago around 1,000 people were trampled to death in the shrine's Kazhimiya district as panic broke out amid rumours of an impending suicide attack.

Extra roadblocks were set up and army sharpshooters deployed to protect the tens of thousands taking part in the pilgrimage which comes to a climax Tuesday marking al-Kazhem's murder in the year 799. (dpa)