MGOH'S link is of course to the Guardian.

It refers to British Tanks breaking down the walls of the prison/jail/police station, whatever (BBC reports and most other media outlets reported it as being a police station). In fact only one vehicle went through the perimeter wall. This was done only after it had become clear that those inside the police station were refusing to follow instructions to release the men

The troops used were not British Commandos.

There were no shots fired - in the face of extreme provocation the troops involved showed remarkable restraint.

Both British and Iraqi Authorities have been very clear that no prisoners escaped from the police station.

Having entered the police station and found that the two soldiers were not there, police officers present were questioned as to the whereabouts of the soldiers. They were directed to a private residence in the hands of a Shia Militia Group - this building was stormed and the men released, the house was then flattened.

In the past soldiers serving with the SAS and SBS were normally subject to summary execution if captured.