Hasina, 11 others face arrest warrant over enforced disappearances
The International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) has issued arrest warrants for 12 individuals, including Awami League President and former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, on charges of enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings during the party's 15-year rule.
The tribunal, led by Chairman Justice Md Golam Mortuza Majumder, issued the warrants on Monday (January 6) after hearing an application filed by Chief Prosecutor Mohammad Tajul Islam.
In addition to Sheikh Hasina, the warrants target notable figures such as former Inspector General of Police Benazir Ahmed and former Prime Minister's Security Adviser Tariq Siddiqui. Former army officer Ziaul Ahsan, who is already in custody, has also been ordered to appear before the tribunal.
The tribunal has instructed law enforcement agencies to produce the arrested individuals in court on February 12. Additionally, authorities have been ordered to submit a progress report on the investigation by the same date.
A file photo of the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) building.
Chief Prosecutor Tajul Islam explained that the crimes in question—enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings—are internationally recognized as grave offenses. "These crimes differ significantly from traditional genocide or crimes against humanity, necessitating a specialised focus," he said.
According to the prosecution, during the Awami League's tenure, hundreds of individuals were reportedly detained in secret "Aynaghars" and subjected to prolonged, inhuman torture. Allegations have also surfaced about incentives offered to police and intelligence officers, including promotions and opportunities for overseas postings, to facilitate these acts.
The Chief Prosecutor emphasised that the tribunal's actions aim to ensure justice through a fair investigation, adding, "This is a chance to hold the perpetrators accountable and provide closure to the victims and their families."
Victims and their families have expressed hope for justice following the tribunal's move. The arrest warrants have been widely recognised as a critical step in addressing crimes of enforced disappearance, which have long plagued the country's human rights landscape.
