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The International Crimes Tribunal has launched an investigation into the enforced disappearance of 251 people during the Awami League government, treating the cases as crimes against humanity, Chief Prosecutor Md Aminul Islam has said.
He said family members of the disappeared are gradually giving statements to investigators, while steps are being taken to ensure their safety. Authorities are also monitoring the activities of those accused in the disappearance cases, he added.
The chief prosecutor made the remarks on Sunday (6 September) while responding to questions from reporters at a press conference at his office. Earlier, he met with family members of 55 people who were allegedly subjected to enforced disappearance.
Aminul Islam said the disappearances have been identified as part of a “widespread and systematic attack” because of similarities among the cases.
“For the 251 people who have not returned, the involvement of the same individuals keeps emerging repeatedly,” he said.
He warned that the activities of some alleged perpetrators had increased since the investigations began, urging law enforcement agencies to remain vigilant.
“Whenever investigations into these disappearances have begun, the activities of some perpetrators have also increased. Law enforcement agencies must therefore remain more alert in the interest of justice,” he said.
The chief prosecutor stressed that the safety of both accused individuals and members of victims’ families was being taken seriously. He said the government had been asked to ensure that witnesses and potential witnesses were not subjected to threats, attacks or harassment.
“We are monitoring the activities of those we have identified as accused. Whether they are in the country or outside the tribunal, we are remaining vigilant to ensure they cannot engage in any wrongdoing, including against members of disappearance victims’ families,” he said.
Aminul Islam said the investigation into enforced disappearances had gained significant momentum, with statements from victims’ families being recorded as part of the ongoing process.
Asked whether members of the victims’ families could become targets, he said the authorities were alert to the possibility.
“There is no reason to consider the perpetrators our friends. They may strike at any time in their own way. That is why we are remaining vigilant, and the government must do the same,” he said.
He urged the families of victims to remain cautious and said steps were being taken to prevent any attempt to obstruct or sabotage the investigations.
Explaining the request for additional government support, Aminul Islam said security at the International Crimes Tribunal had already been strengthened and law enforcement agencies had been put on alert.
“Some of the movements and activities of certain accused individuals have appeared suspicious to us. We have confidential information that they may attempt acts of sabotage or disruption. We are working after carefully analysing all these developments,” he said.
The chief prosecutor also said the government was taking steps to enact a “Enforced Disappearance Prevention and Remedy Act”, describing it as a timely piece of legislation that would help expedite justice for enforced disappearances across the country.
He said those involved in enforced disappearances were “powerful and criminal elements”, requiring both investigators and prosecutors to remain highly cautious.
“We will complete these investigations as quickly as possible and bring those responsible to justice,” he said.
Regarding reports of possible sabotage targeting the tribunal, Aminul Islam said a report published by a media outlet on Sunday had come to their attention. He said activities both inside and outside the tribunal were being closely monitored.
“If anyone attempts any wrongdoing, it will be suicidal for them,” he warned.
He reiterated that all relevant authorities had been instructed to remain alert to ensure that the tribunal’s security and judicial proceedings could not be disrupted.
