Chief Prosecutor of the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) Md Aminul Islam said on Monday that former Inspector General of Police (IGP) Benazir Ahmed, who was recently arrested in Dubai, is likely to be extradited to Bangladesh within the next month.
Speaking to reporters at a press briefing at his office, Aminul Islam said the process of bringing Benazir back to Bangladesh has already begun and is progressing swiftly.
"We expect the UAE authorities to return Benazir Ahmed to Bangladesh within the next month," he said.
The chief prosecutor said Benazir is one of the accused in an ongoing crimes against humanity case involving allegations of enforced disappearances and torture at the Rapid Action Battalion's (RAB) Task Force for Interrogation (TFI) cell.
He added that the investigation into the Shapla Chattar case is nearing completion, while prosecutors have already prepared formal charges in the case over the killing of Ekramul Haque in Teknaf, Cox's Bazar. The charges are expected to be filed soon.
Aminul Islam said investigators have found evidence linking Benazir to numerous cases of enforced disappearance and noted that he also faces several other allegations outside the tribunal's proceedings.
"We have already submitted documents related to three arrest warrants to the government. These will be forwarded to Interpol, while a formal request has also been made seeking his extradition," he said.
According to the chief prosecutor, the remaining legal and procedural formalities are expected to be completed within a month, after which the UAE authorities are expected to hand him over to Bangladesh.
He further said Benazir Ahmed will be interrogated upon his return as part of ongoing investigations.
"We expect to obtain crucial information and evidence from him, and all necessary questioning will be conducted in accordance with the law," Aminul Islam said.
