Accra:International Crimes Tribunal-1 has decided to keep Major General (relieved) Ziaul Ahsan in jail, allowing him to appear virtually in court proceedings. This decision is due to security concerns as the testimonies of prosecution witnesses in the case involving enforced disappearances and over 100 killings are close to completion.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, prosecutor Gazi MH Tamim confirmed the decision, noting that the defense had requested for Ahsan to travel with other accused in a prison van to the tribunal. However, the prosecution objected, citing potential security threats from both the other accused and Ahsan's own side. Instead, they requested Ahsan remain in jail and attend hearings virtually.
Prosecutor Tamim mentioned that the ICT Act permits virtual appearances for accused individuals from jail, where necessary facilities are available. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, jails have been equipped with audiovisual conferencing capabilities. This setup allows the accused to hear and participate in tribunal proceedings, while judges and lawyers can communicate with him from the tribunal.
The tribunal has accepted this arrangement, and Ahsan will continue to attend hearings virtually. The investigation officer, Md Rafiqul Islam, has completed his testimony and will soon be cross-examined by the defense. To date, 15 prosecution witnesses have testified in the case.