DHAKA, Sept 30, 2025 (BSS) - Investigation Officer (IO) Md Alamgir told the International Crimes Tribunal-1 (ICT-1) today that murders were committed at 438 locations across 41 districts during the 2024 July Uprising, leading to ouster of fascist prime minister Sheikh Hasina.

Alamgir, who is the 54th and final prosecution witness in the case, presented his testimony before the three-member tribunal headed by Justice M Golam Murtaza Majumder. The case involves charges of crimes against humanity against deposed prime minister Sheikh Hasina, former home minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal, and former inspector general of police (IGP) Chowdhury Abdullah Al-Mamun.

The IO said that armed leaders and activists affiliated with the then-ruling Awami League (AL) carried out killings using deadly weapons to suppress mass protests. He said such attacks occurred in over 50 districts, and the goal was to remain in power at any cost.

According to his testimony, the Awami League regime not only committed widespread killings but also engaged in enforced disappearances, election rigging, and staged acts of political violence to stifle opposition. These actions, he noted, prompted people from all walks of life to take part in the July Uprising.

As part of the trial proceedings, portions of the IO's statement and seized video evidence were broadcast live on BTV, with international networks BBC and Al Jazeera also airing segments.

The tribunal has already heard testimonies from the families of victims, including the father of Abu Sayeed, regarded as a symbol of the uprising. Other key witnesses include Nahid Islam, Convener of the National Citizen Party, and Dr. Mahmudur Rahman, Editor of the daily Amar Desh.

Chief Prosecutor Mohammad Tajul Islam, along with Prosecutors Mizanul Islam and Gazi GH Tamim, are representing the prosecution. State-appointed lawyer Amir Hossain is defending the fugitive accused Sheikh Hasina and Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal. Former IGP Chowdhury Abdullah Al-Mamun, who was arrested and later turned state witness, is represented by lawyer Zayed Bin Amjad.

The tribunal formally framed charges on July 10, 2025, and approved Mamun's application to testify as a public witness after he pled guilty. His testimony is regarded as a turning point in the case.

Besides this trial, Sheikh Hasina is facing two additional cases before the ICT. One pertains to alleged abductions and killings during her 15-and-a-half-year rule, while the other is linked to the deaths of demonstrators at a Hefazat-e-Islam rally at Shapla Square in Dhaka's Motijheel area.