58 victims identified in Shapla Chattar killings, says ICT chief prosecutor

The prosecution of the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) expects to submit the formal charge sheet in a case over the Shapla Chattar killings by June 7, identifying former prime minister Sheikh Hasina as the primary suspect, report agencies.

Chief Prosecutor Md Aminul Islam shared the update during a press briefing at the ICT prosecution office on Tuesday, saying approximately 90 per cent of the investigation has already been completed.

Addressing long-standing political debates on the casualties during the 2013 Hifazat-e Islam rally, Aminul provided specific figures verified by investigators.

"While political rhetoric often claims hundreds or thousands of deaths, our investigation must remain factual," he said, confirming the deaths of 58 individuals across Dhaka, Narayanganj, Chattogram, and Cumilla.

The confirmed fatalities included 32 deaths in Dhaka, 20 in Narayanganj, five in Chattogram, and one in Cumilla.

The chief prosecutor noted that investigators have personally spoken with the families of the deceased to ensure positive identification.

The prosecution has characterised the midnight crackdown as a 'systematic and widespread attack' and 'targeted killing'.

"Sheikh Hasina will be the primary accused as the mastermind behind the plan. We have found evidence of her involvement," Aminul told journalists.

He added that the list of accused will likely exceed 30 individuals, including former chiefs of security forces and the then-police commissioner.

The prosecution specifically mentioned former major general Ziaul Ahsan as being "directly present" and involved in the operation.

Currently, six individuals, including a former inspector general of police (IGP), are in custody in connection with the case.

Recounting the events of May 5, 2013, the Aminul explained that Hifazat activists initially held sit-ins at Dhaka's entry points before moving to Shapla Chattar.

Tensions escalated near the Awami League office in Gulistan, leading to early casualties.

"By 2:30am, before the main midnight operation, 18 to 20 people had already been killed or injured. The subsequent midnight assault led to further fatalities," he said.

According to the prosecution, the objective of the then-government was to "eliminate" the Islamic organisation through a systematic attack.

When asked if later political reconciliations -- such as the recognition of Qawmi degrees and the title of "Qawmi Janani" bestowed upon Hasina -- would impact the case, Aminul said those events fall outside the scope of the criminal trial.