July Uprising: Killings took place at 438 locations in 41 districts, lethal weapons used in 50, investigator tells ICT

Killings occurred at 438 locations in 41 districts by law enforcement agencies during the suppression of the July Uprising, with lethal weapons used in more than 50 districts, an investigator told the International Crimes Tribunal-1 today (30 September).

The testimony came from Md Alamgir, the chief investigation officer in the crimes against humanity case filed against ousted prime minister Sheikh Hasina, former home minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal, and one other accused.

Appearing as the 54th witness on the third day of his deposition, Alamgir told the tribunal, "During the July Uprising last year, killings occurred at 438 locations in 41 districts. In more than 50 districts, law enforcement agencies used lethal weapons."

Alamgir further said, "Around 3,05,000 rounds of ammunition were fired on students and protesters during the movement."

At that point, the tribunal asked whether the accused had taken any measures to prevent the killings or atrocities that unfolded during July.

Alamgir replied, "No. The accused took no steps to stop the killings or atrocities during the July Uprising. Nor was any action taken against those responsible for the murders, enforced disappearances, and injuries. Essentially, Sheikh Hasina sought to cling to power over the past 15 years through killings, disappearances, and torture."

The hearing was conducted by prosecutors Mizanul Islam and Gazi MH Tamim, assisted by prosecutors Faruq Ahmed and Abdus Sattar Palowan, among others.

Yesterday (29 September), Alamgir gave his second day of testimony, where he presented various documents and evidence.

The tribunal also viewed a television channel's report on the brutality of the July Uprising, as well as footage of the police operation in Jatrabari on 5 August last year.