BAGHDAD, Sept. 9 (Xinhuanet) -- The British company providing security for Baghdad's International Airport suspended its operations in the facility on Friday due to payment disputes with Iraq's transport ministry.

    An airport police officer confirmed the facility was closed since 8:00 a.m. (0400 GMT), adding he didn't know how long the closure would last.

    Officials from the London-based Global Strategies Group said the Iraqi ministry, which owns the facility, had arrears with the security firm since February.

    "Once payment is made by the client, Global will resume its work and allow normal operations to resume," a statement by the company said.

    Five airline companies operate 15 domestic and international civilian flights daily.

    The British security firm also operates at the Green Zone in central Baghdad, which houses the Iraqi government offices and the US embassy.  Enditem