The Chief Prosecutor of the International Crimes Tribunal, Tazul Islam, announced that the investigation into the brutal killings that took place in Dhaka’s Chankharpul area during July and August has been concluded. A total of eight individuals, including a former Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) Commissioner, have been named as accused in the case.

At a press conference held on Monday, April 21, at the Chief Prosecutor’s office of the tribunal, Tazul Islam confirmed that this is the first case involving crimes against humanity during the July-August period for which a formal investigation report has been submitted. The 90-page report was filed following a 195-day-long investigation.

The incidents occurred between July 1 and August 5, during which time a peaceful movement in Chankharpul was met with extreme and disproportionate force. Law enforcement personnel allegedly used lethal weapons against unarmed protestors, leading to the deaths of multiple individuals.

Those killed in the attack have been identified as Shahriar Khan Anas, Sheikh Mahdi Hasan Junayed, Md. Yakub, Md. Rakib Hawlader, Md. Ismamul Haque, and Manik Mia Shahrik. The report states that these individuals were part of a non-violent protest when law enforcement intervened with deadly force.

Among the arrested accused are Inspector Arshad, Constable Md. Sujon, Constable Imaaz Hossain Emon, and Constable Nasirul Islam. Former DMP Commissioner Habibur Rahman and several others remain fugitives.

The investigation revealed that the accused, including the former commissioner, were either physically present at the scene or were in positions of oversight. They played active roles in facilitating the massacre by issuing direct orders, providing support, and failing to prevent their subordinates from committing these atrocities. Furthermore, they took no subsequent action to hold anyone accountable or mitigate the consequences of the attack.

According to Chief Prosecutor Tazul Islam, such conduct falls under the category of crimes against humanity as defined by the laws governing the International Crimes Tribunal. As such, these actions are considered punishable offenses.

The submitted investigation report is supported by the testimonies of 79 witnesses. It also includes 19 video recordings, 11 newspaper reports, 2 audio files, 11 books and reports, and 6 death certificates.

This development marks a significant milestone in bringing those responsible for crimes against humanity to justice and sets a precedent for accountability in future incidents involving the abuse of power by state forces.