An investigation committee has found preliminary evidence supporting allegations that former International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) prosecutor Saimum Reza Talukder demanded a Tk1 crore bribe in exchange for helping former Chattogram-6 MP Fazle Karim Chowdhury secure acquittal in a case linked to the July killings.
Chief Prosecutor and committee head Md Aminul Islam told The Business Standard today (21 April) that they had collected audio clips and documents suggesting the prosecutor demanded a bribe to secure Fazle Karim’s release from the case.
The committee, however, has not found evidence so far that any money was actually received.
“The fact-finding committee is continuing its work. We will share the final findings once the report is completed,” he said.
According to the allegation, the prosecutor sought Tk1 crore to facilitate Fazle Karim’s release from charges in a crimes against humanity case.
The issue sparked controversy, prompting the tribunal to form a fact-finding committee on 10 March.
Several media reports have cited an audio recording of a WhatsApp conversation in which references are allegedly made to a Tk1 crore payment and an advance of Tk10 lakh in cash.
Fazle Karim Chowdhury was arrested on 12 September 2024 while allegedly attempting to flee to India via the Akhaura border.
He has been shown arrested in a crimes against humanity case linked to killings during the anti-discrimination movement, as well as in two additional murder cases.
About The Author
