Dhaka:Some 280 individuals who fell victim to enforced disappearances during the tenure of the Awami League government remain untraced, as stated by Md Aminul Islam, Chief Prosecutor of the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT).
According to United News of Bangladesh, investigations into these incidents are nearing completion, with formal complaints set to be filed with the tribunal following necessary verifications. Md Aminul Islam conveyed this information on Wednesday after meeting with family members of the victims who were seeking updates on the progress of legal proceedings.
During the meeting, the chief prosecutor informed the families about the ongoing investigations and assured them that justice would be pursued. He also mentioned a commission report identifying 280 individuals whose whereabouts and fate are still unknown. The investigation, led by Salahuddin, an investigator for the International Crimes Tribunal, is being conducted with guidance and support from the prosecution.
Md Aminul Islam described a pattern of enforced disappearances during Sheikh Hasina's tenure, where law enforcement agencies reportedly detained individuals expressing dissenting views. Allegations include torture and secret detention before subjects were presented in court under fabricated charges.
He further highlighted that many of these abductions, allegedly politically and state-backed, coincided with major political events, including elections. Some victims were reportedly killed in 'crossfire' incidents, while others remain missing.
The chief prosecutor pointed out that the Enforced Disappearance (Prevention and Redress) Act, 2026, includes specific provisions for prosecuting such crimes. Cases involving large-scale or systematic enforced disappearances will be tried by the International Crimes Tribunal, whereas other cases will be handled by relevant sessions courts.