Security tightened around ICT ahead of Hasina verdict

Security has been tightened around the premises of the International Crimes Tribunal ahead of the verdict in the case concerning crimes against humanity committed during July–August, filed against ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and two others, scheduled for Monday.

Since Sunday (16 November), security measures have been reinforced around the gates and surrounding areas of the Supreme Court and the tribunal in anticipation of the verdict announcement. Law enforcement agencies have blocked traffic on the road from Doel Chattar of Dhaka University and Dhaka Medical College Hospital toward the Education Building. Pedestrian movement has also been restricted. In addition to the police, the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) and Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB), the army has also been deployed. Intelligence personnel have been active since 13 November, even before the verdict date was officially set.

At 9:00 am, former IGP Chowdhury Abdullah Al-Mamun, who is also accused in the case, was brought to the tribunal.

For the first time in the country’s history, a former Prime Minister is facing the prospect of punishment after being tried for crimes against humanity. The verdict has drawn attention both inside and outside the country toward the tribunal.