The International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) has directed the forensic examination of call records involving Sheikh Hasina, the then Prime Minister, and others during the July-August genocide. The tribunal, chaired by Justice Md. Golam Mortuza Mojumdar, issued the order on Monday, January 13.
Prosecutor B.M. Sultan Mahmud informed reporters, “The tribunal has permitted a forensic examination to verify the authenticity of crucial call records obtained from online platforms and other sources related to the July-August genocide involving Sheikh Hasina and others.”
At a subsequent briefing, cyber security expert Prosecutor Tanvir Zohar disclosed that key evidence of enforced disappearances had surfaced. He stated, “Extensive efforts were made to conceal evidence of the killings. Significant call records of those involved have been recovered.”
The July-August killings, recognized as “genocide,” are currently under trial at the International Crimes Tribunal for crimes against humanity. The events, initially triggered by quota reform protests and later intensified during anti-government demonstrations, resulted in widespread casualties.
While the exact death toll remains undetermined, a list from the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare estimates 708 deaths. Efforts to finalize the list and establish the precise number of victims are ongoing.