Police and health officials say a wave of car bombings in the Iraqi capital has killed at least 23 people.


Four police officers said a total of eight parked car bombs hit markets and parking lots in predominantly Shia neighbourhoods of Baghdad within one hour on Monday. They say the deadliest was in the eastern Shia neighbourhood of Sadr City, where two separate explosions killed nine civilians and wounded 33 others.


Five health officials confirmed the casualty figures and said scores more were wounded. All officials spoke on condition of anonymity as they were not authorized to release information.


The attacks come amid an increase in violence started since April that has left more than 3,000 dead.