Allegations Rock Bangladesh’s International Crimes Tribunal Prosecution

Allegations Rock Bangladesh’s International Crimes Tribunal Prosecution Fresh allegations have emerged from within Bangladesh’s International Crimes Tribunal prosecution team, raising questions about conduct at one of the country’s most significant judicial institutions. Prosecutor BM Sultan Mahmud has accused former Chief Prosecutor Tajul Islam of operating what he described as a “syndicate” that allegedly granted state witness status to certain accused individuals in exchange for money. Speaking to Bangla Tribune and cited in reports by The Daily Star, Mahmud claimed that financial transactions were linked to decisions involving a former Inspector General of Police, known as Mamun, and an accused named Afzal in the Ashulia body-burning case. According to his account, both were granted immunity or acquittal after being made state witnesses. Mahmud further alleged that Supreme Court lawyer Shishir Monir was present during key stages of questioning at the Dhanmondi investigation office — a claim that, if substantiated, could raise procedural concerns. Additional allegations include an incident in late November in which, he claims, the wife of an accused person entered a prosecutor’s office carrying a heavy bag. Mahmud says the matter was reported internally but not formally investigated, and that the accused was subsequently granted state witness status and acquitted. He also raised concerns about other cases, including proceedings in Chankharpul and Rangpur, where he alleges inconsistencies between witness testimony and prosecutorial decisions. The allegations have not been independently verified. Those named in the claims have not publicly responded. If proven, the accusations could have serious implications for prosecutorial integrity, due process safeguards, and public confidence in the tribunal system — an institution established to address some of Bangladesh’s most sensitive and high-profile cases. For now, the claims remain allegations. But they are likely to intensify scrutiny of the tribunal’s operations in the days ahead. #Bangladesh #ICTBD