The International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) is planning to investigate alleged crimes against humanity committed in different districts across the country during the Awami League’s 15-year rule, with cases falling under its jurisdiction to be brought to trial.
Chief Prosecutor Md Aminul Islam disclosed the initiative while speaking to journalists at his office on Thursday.
He said the tribunal’s investigation agency and prosecution believe that incidents of extrajudicial killings, enforced disappearances and abductions took place in different districts between 2008 and the end of the Awami League’s rule.
He also referred to killings during the July mass uprising, saying many people were shot indiscriminately while others suffered permanent disabilities.
To investigate the allegations, the prosecution and the investigation agency will jointly visit districts across the country and hold public hearings to identify incidents that may constitute crimes against humanity.
Cases found to fall within the jurisdiction of the International Crimes (Tribunals) Act will be brought before the tribunal for trial, the chief prosecutor said.
He said complaints involving enforced disappearances, abductions, extrajudicial killings, killings during the July mass uprising and other offences covered by the law would be examined through visits to the respective districts.
If evidence of crimes is found, those responsible will be identified and steps will be taken to arrest them. Where necessary, arrests may also be made at the locations where the alleged crimes took place, he added.
Aminul Islam further said complaints and cases identified at the district level would be forwarded to the tribunal’s investigation agency for investigation. Legal proceedings would then be initiated based on the findings.
He said the prosecution would seek adequate logistical support from the government to implement the initiative.”We believe the government will provide the necessary cooperation for this initiative,” he said.
