Dhaka: Former Inspector General of Police (IGP) Chowdhury Abdullah Al-Mamun has become a state approver in the July-August massacre case. Admitting his involvement in the crimes against humanity, Mamun informed the International Crimes Tribunal-1 (ICT-1) that he would disclose all the secrets related to the massacre, stating his participation in the killings and expressing his willingness to testify voluntarily.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the ICT-1, led by Justice Golam Mortuza Majumder, has officially begun the trial proceedings against ousted prime minister Sheikh Hasina and former home minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal for their roles in the massacre. The tribunal has scheduled the opening statement for August 3, with witness testimonies set to commence on August 4.
Standing before the tribunal, the former IGP acknowledged five allegations against him and expressed his intention to act as a state approver in the case. The tribunal subsequently granted him permission to serve as a state witness. The tribunal also includes Justice Md Shafiul Alam Mahmud and Justice Md Mohitul Haque Enam Chowdhury.
Chief Prosecutor Tajul Islam and his team represented the state, while senior advocate Amir Hossain represented ousted prime minister Sheikh Hasina. Advocate Zayed Bin Amjad represented the former IGP.
Earlier, on May 12, investigators submitted a report identifying Sheikh Hasina as the person who ordered the July massacre. The tribunal had directed the investigators to complete the investigation by April 20.
The case is associated with the student-led movement against discrimination that occurred last year. During this period, the Awami League government deployed deadly force against unarmed students and civilians, resulting in approximately 1,500 deaths.