The prosecution will submit formal charges to the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) on Monday in the crimes against humanity case over the alleged killings during the 2013 Shapla Chattar operation, Chief Prosecutor Md Aminul Islam said on Saturday.
Speaking at a discussion titled "Human Rights Violations and Access to Justice for Victims" at the CIRDAP auditorium in Dhaka, Aminul Islam said the ICT's investigation agency had completed its probe into the events of May 5, 2013, and submitted its report to the Chief Prosecutor's Office.
After reviewing the findings, prosecutors prepared the formal charge sheet, which will be placed before the tribunal on Monday, marking the next stage in the judicial process, he said.
According to the prosecution, more than 40 people, including former prime minister Sheikh Hasina, have been named as accused in the case. The full list of defendants will be disclosed when the formal charges are filed.
Nine people are currently in custody in connection with the case. They include former minister Dr Dipu Moni, former state minister for home affairs Shamsul Haque Tuku, retired Major General Ziaul Ahsan, former inspector general of police AKM Shahidul Hoque, former deputy inspector general Mollah Nazrul Islam, Shahriar Kabir, president of the advisory committee of the Ghatak Dalal Nirmul Committee, former DIG Abdul Jalil Mondal, and journalists Farzana Rupa and Mozammel Babu.
Prosecution sources said the investigation report names 41 accused, including Sheikh Hasina, former army chief General Aziz Ahmed, journalists Mozammel Babu and Farzana Rupa, and writer Shahriar Kabir. Detailed information is expected to be disclosed at a formal press briefing.
On May 5, 2013, Hefazat-e-Islam Bangladesh staged a rally at Shapla Chattar in Dhaka's Motijheel, demanding implementation of its 13-point charter.
Following a day of tensions and clashes, members of the police, Rapid Action Battalion (RAB), and Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) carried out a joint overnight operation to clear the area. Allegations that numerous people were killed during the operation later prompted an investigation by the International Crimes Tribunal into possible crimes against humanity.
