Dhaka: A survivor of the police shooting in Jatrabari on July 19, 2024, testified today as the first prosecution witness against Sheikh Hasina, Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal, and Chowdhury Abdullah Al-Mamun in a case of crimes against humanity. Khokon Chandro Barman, a microbus driver who suffered severe facial injuries from the shooting, shared his harrowing experience at the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT)-1.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Khokon recounted joining the student-people movement on July 18, 2024, in Narayanganj. The following day, he was part of a group moving towards Chashara when they encountered police and BGB gunfire, resulting in casualties and injuries. On August 5, he was shot near Jatrabari Police Station while participating in a protest.
Khokon described the chaos as police fired upon demonstrators, leaving many injured, including himself. He detailed how a close-range shot severely damaged his face, requiring immediate medical attention. He was initially treated at Mugda Medical College Hospital and subsequently transferred to Dhaka Medical College Hospital and Mirpur Dental Hospital for further care.
His condition necessitated advanced treatment, leading to his transfer to the National Institute of Burn and Plastic Surgery. Khokon spent a month in ICU and continued his recovery in Russia starting February 21, 2025.
Following Khokon’s testimony, Advocate Amir Hossain, representing Sheikh Hasina and Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal, conducted a cross-examination. The tribunal, chaired by Justice Md Golam Mortuza Mozumder, adjourned the hearing until tomorrow.
Earlier, Chief Prosecutor Muhammad Tajul Islam presented the opening statement, with Attorney General Md Asaduzzaman urging justice for the crimes during the July-August uprising. On July 10, the tribunal indicted the accused for crimes against humanity.
The ICT-1 had ordered Sheikh Hasina and Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal to surrender by June 24, 2025, as per tribunal procedures. However, the accused did not comply, prompting the tribunal to proceed with the trial in their absence. Notices were published in national dailies to summon the fugitives.
Formal charges filed by the prosecution included five counts against the accused, with reports suggesting they were in India. The investigation agency submitted its report on May 12.