Iraqis who use satellite telephones are committing "acts of treason" and "will be held responsible by law, which does not forgive traitors and intruders," an Iraqi security spokesman said in a statement read on state television.

"Mobile satellite telephones have been used by American and British intelligence agents to communicate information on vital targets in Iraq," the spokesman said.

"A not insignificant number of citizens have such telephones and we call on them to give them back to authorities. They will be given back when the war finishes with a crushing victory (for Iraq) helped by God."

He urged Iraqis to give up their satellite phones "before it gets too late."

Any Iraqi who turns in someone illegally holding satellite equipment will be awarded five million dinars, about 2,000 dollars, he said.

The channel reported President Saddam Hussein had promised twice that amount to anyone who helped either arrested an Iraqi spy or helped authorities do it.

SPACE.WIRE