The International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) would issue arrest warrants against Sheikh Hasina for her alleged involvement in genocide in July-August and seek Interpol’s help to bring her back to the country from her place of hiding, Chief Prosecutor Advocate Tajul Islam said Sunday.

Judges would also be appointed this week, thereby completing necessary preparations for holding trials in the cases, Tajul told reporters at ICT’s Dhanmondi office, echoing Law Adviser Asif Nazrul’s statement last week.

Apart from Hasina, others accused in the cases filed with the ICT, including Awami League (AL) leaders and top government officials involved in carrying out the party’s misdeeds, would also be brought in with help from the Interpol, Tajul said, adding the process can be successful as Bangladesh is connected to Interpol’s global network.

Travel bans would also be imposed this very week on those culprits, who could not flee abroad and are now hiding within the country, Tajul further informed reporters.

The ICT has already formed investigating and prosecution teams to ensure justice for the July-August mass killings carried out on orders from the Sheikh Hasina-led autocratic government. Works are also ongoing to revise existing ICT laws and refurbish concerned buildings.

The appointment of judge was the only remaining major hurdle in starting trials, which would be resolved this week.

At least 60 genocide cases have been filed with the ICT against Hasina and many of her allies, trials for which are set to start within a month.

BDST: 2001 HRS, OCT 13, 2024
MN/SMS