No reason to consider enforced disappearance suspects our friends: ICT chief prosecutor

International Crimes Tribunal Chief Prosecutor Md Aminul Islam has warned that those involved in enforced disappearances and killings could “strike at any time”, urging heightened security for victims’ families, witnesses and tribunal personnel.

“There is no reason to consider the criminals our friends. They can strike us at any time. We are working with this in mind,” he told reporters at his office today (6 September).

He said the tribunal had begun investigating the enforced disappearance of 251 people across the country during the Awami League government’s tenure as crimes against humanity. Families are giving depositions, making their security a key concern.

Earlier today, family members of 55 victims met the chief prosecutor.

Aminul said the disappearances were classified as a “widespread and systematic attack” because the cases shared common patterns. The involvement of the same individuals had repeatedly emerged in the cases of the 251 people who remain missing, he said.

He said some alleged perpetrators became more active whenever disappearance investigations began. Law enforcement agencies therefore needed greater vigilance, while authorities should monitor those facing trial before the tribunal and victims’ families.

The chief prosecutor said the government had been asked to ensure full security for the accused, tribunal personnel, victims’ families and witnesses, including during the transportation of accused persons and inside and outside the tribunal.

He said investigations had gained momentum while depositions and other investigative activities continued. Asked whether victims’ families could be targeted, Aminul said the tribunal was alert to the risk and had advised families to remain cautious, particularly to prevent disruption, sabotage or obstruction of investigations.

Security tightened over sabotage fears

Aminul said tribunal security had already been strengthened and law enforcement personnel alerted. Some accused persons’ movements appeared suspicious, while confidential information suggested they could carry out sabotage or other destructive acts, he said.

On the proposed Enforced Disappearance Prevention and Remedy Act, he said it was a “very timely” law that could give fresh momentum to the prosecution of disappearance cases.

Describing those involved as “very powerful and criminal elements”, Aminul said investigations would be completed quickly, and those responsible would be brought to justice.

He said all activities inside and outside the tribunal were being monitored. “If anyone is thinking of carrying out such activities, it will be suicidal for them,” he warned.