In a significant development, the International Crimes Tribunal has issued arrest warrants for Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, her son Shajeeb Wazed Joy, General Secretary Obaidul Quader, and 43 others in connection with allegations of genocide during the anti-discrimination student movement in July-August.
The tribunal has ordered the arrest of the accused and their presentation before the court by 18 November, 2024
The tribunal`s proceedings began at 11:30 AM on Thursday, 17 October, in an interim location due to ongoing renovations at the main tribunal building.
The application for arrest warrants was presented by Chief Prosecutor Advocate Mohammad Tajul Islam in front of the tribunal, chaired by Justice Mohammad Golam Mortuza Majumder and two other judges.
The arrest warrants include high-profile figures such as Mohammad A. Arafat, Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal, Dipu Moni, A.K.M. Mozammel Haque, Junaid Ahmed Palak, Sheikh Rehana, Sheikh Selim, Sheikh Fazle Noor Taposh, Sheikh Fazle Shams Parash, and several former law enforcement and military officials, including former DMP Commissioner Habibur Rahman and former RAB DG Harun Ur Rashid.
During the session, the prosecution highlighted the violent actions associated with Sheikh Hasina`s regime, including extrajudicial killings, genocide, and the Paltan killings.
Chief Prosecutor Tajul Islam presented evidence against Sheikh Hasina and called for the issuance of arrest warrants for her and 50 others.
This session marked the first day of the newly appointed chairman, Justice Golam Mortuza Majumder, at the International Crimes Tribunal.
Justice Mohammad Shafiul Alam Mahmud and retired District Judge Mohitul Haque Enam Chowdhury, were also present who were welcomed by the tribunal`s registrar and staff.
On 13 October, Chief Prosecutor Tajul Islam mentioned the possibility of seeking Interpol`s assistance in bringing Sheikh Hasina and other fugitives back to the country.
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