Arguments in Abu Sayed killing case set for Jan 20
The International Crimes Tribunal (ICT)-2 today set January 20 for placing arguments in the crimes against humanity case filed over the killing of Begum Rokeya University, Rangpur (BRUR) student Abu Sayed during the July Mass Uprising. The three-judge panel of the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT)-2 led by Justice Md Nozrul Islam Chowdhury passed the order as the testimony in the case came to an end today.
A total of 25 prosecution witnesses including the investigation officer (IO) testified in the case. Chief Prosecutor Muhammad Tajul Islam, prosecutors Md Mizanul Islam and Gazi MH Tamim took part in the hearing for the prosecution, while advocate Aminul Gani Titu argued for accused former BRUR Proctor Shariful Islam and Advocate Sujad Miah stood as state-appointed defence counsel for the other fugitive accused. Chief Prosecutor Muhammad Tajul Islam in his opening statement, described Abu Sayed as a symbol of courage in the July Mass Uprising.
Six-- former BRUR proctor Shariful Islam, former assistant registrar Rafiul Hasan Russel, former staffer Md Anwar Pervej, former assistant sub-inspector Amir Hossain, former constable Sujan Chandra Roy, and former BRUR Chhatra League general secretary Imran Chowdhury Akash-- of the 30 accused were produced before the tribunal today. The tribunal framed charges against all 30 accused on August 6, 2025. Advocate Azizur Rahman Dulu represented Sujan Chandra Roy; Advocate Aminul Gani Titu appeared for Shariful Islam; and Advocate Salauddin Regan represented Imran Chowdhury Akash. The tribunal appointed six state defence counsels on July 22 to represent fugitives in absentia.
ICT-2 issued arrest warrants on June 30 against 26 fugitives, including former BRUR vice-chancellor (VC) Professor Dr Md Hasibur Rashid. The investigation agency submitted its report on June 24, accusing 30 individuals, including the former commissioner of Rangpur Metropolitan Police. Four arrestees were interrogated on June 18 and 19 after the tribunal formally showed them arrested on April 9. According to the prosecution, on July 16, 2024, shortly before Sayed's death, the then-proctor allegedly forced students off campus with the help of Chhatra League activists, after which two policemen fired on Sayed at close range. Sayed's family filed a complaint on January 13, 2025, naming 25 individuals.
