Probe reports on several enforced disappearances under AL rule within 1 week: Tajul
Very soon, many of these disappearance cases will see developments, says ICT Chief Prosecutor Tajul Islam.
International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) Chief Prosecutor Tajul Islam has said investigation reports on several high-profile enforced disappearance cases, which occurred under the Awami League government regime, will be submitted within a week.
Very soon, many of these disappearance cases will see developments, Tajul told journalists on the ICT premises today (6 October). "We are not saying anything more on the matter today."
Addressing concerns about delays in the trials, he said, "These formal charges are the response to those concerns… After receiving the investigation reports, charges are being pressed one after another. The judicial process has officially begun, and many cases are now in their final stages.
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"The nation's expectation was to see justice for the worst killers, mass murderers and perpetrators of crimes against humanity. The tribunal is on the right path to ensure that, and I hope the trials will be completed within the expected time."
Responding to a question about a case involving senior Awami League leader Obaidul Quader, he said, "We have said it repeatedly that everything will not happen all at once… You will see results in due time."
On the status of the disappearance cases, the ICT chief prosecutor reiterated, "As I said yesterday, within this week, investigation reports on several key cases will be submitted. These are complex cases, so we are meticulously reviewing every detail."
When asked about the key accused, ousted prime minister Sheikh Hasina, he replied, "You will see the rest soon."
According to ICT prosecution sources, since 5 August 2024, the tribunal has received 357 complaints related to crimes against humanity, including murder, attempted murder, enforced disappearance, torture and abduction, committed during the 15-and-a-half-year rule of the Awami League.
Among these, 140 are disappearance complaints, most of which have been sent to the tribunal's investigation agency for verification. After cross-checking the authenticity of these allegations, officials will submit reports to the prosecution.
