The cross-examination of former Inspector General of Police (IGP) Chowdhury Abdullah Al-Mamun, a key state witness in the war crimes case against former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and former Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal, began on Thursday.
Proceedings started at 11:35 am at the International Crimes Tribunal-1, presided over by Chairman Justice Md Golam Mortuza Mojumdar. Mamun was questioned by state-appointed defense counsel Md Amir Hossain, representing Hasina and Kamal.
On September 2, Mamun had given his testimony as a state witness, after which he was partially cross-examined. The tribunal then granted a defense petition to continue the cross-examination on September 4.
In his testimony, Mamun acknowledged political influence and factionalism within the police during the Awami League government. He admitted his own role in atrocities committed during the July–August movement, stating that the operations were carried out under directives from Sheikh Hasina and Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal. He also expressed remorse and sought forgiveness.
So far, 36 witnesses have testified in the case, many demanding exemplary punishment for Hasina, Kamal, and others allegedly responsible for the July–August killings.
On July 10, the tribunal formally indicted Hasina, Kamal, and Mamun on five counts of crimes against humanity. The formal charges span 8,747 pages, including 2,018 pages of references, 4,005 pages of seizure lists and documentary evidence, and 2,724 pages detailing the list of victims. A total of 81 witnesses have been listed for the trial. The tribunal’s investigation agency submitted its report to the Chief Prosecutor on May 12.
