Shapla Chattar case: Ex-DIG denied bail, seeks to become state witness

Former Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Police Abdul Jalil Mondal has expressed willingness to become a state witness in a crimes against humanity case linked to the alleged killings during the Hefazat-e-Islam rally at Shapla Chattar in 2013.

His counsel, Advocate Ali Haider, made the submission today (6 May) before the International Crimes Tribunal-1, while moving a bail petition on medical grounds and seeking permission for Mondal to receive treatment at home.

The hearing was conducted by the tribunal headed by Justice Md Golam Mortuza Majumder.

In his argument, Ali Haider stated that Mondal, now 60, has been suffering from longstanding cardiac complications and was serving as Additional Commissioner of Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) at the time of the 2013 incident, though he had no involvement in the alleged offences.

He further submitted that medical reports indicate Mondal is afflicted with seven heart blockages and requires advanced treatment.

The defence further informed the court that Mondal is willing to fully cooperate with the judicial process and is prepared to become a state witness if required.

The Tribunal, however, observed that the submitted medical report does not reflect his condition as critical. After hearing both sides, the International Crimes Tribunal-1 rejected the bail petition.

Later, speaking to journalists, Advocate Ali Haider said the case is still under investigation and that Mondal has been implicated as an accused alongside former prime minister Sheikh Hasina.

He further said Mondal has not fled the country and was arrested from his residence in Sabujbagh on 30 March. The following day, on 31 March, the Tribunal ordered him to be sent to jail upon showing him arrested in the case.

He had earlier also served as additional director general of the Rapid Action Battalion.