ICT chief prosecutor suspects plot against Aynaghar investigators

There was apparently an attempt to assassinate investigators of the secret detention centres built during the previous Awami League government, Tajul Islam, chief prosecutor of the International Crimes Tribunal, said today.

He also said they have received draft probe reports of three cases--killings in Chankharpul and Ashulia, and another case against Sheikh Hasina--and hope to submit formal charges for two of them within this month.

Tajul was speaking to journalists following today's tribunal proceedings, amid allegations of slow progress of the July uprising trial.

He said, the investigation agency has uncovered three of the most complex secret detention centres, known as Aynaghars. Among them, the TFI cell — a semi-underground facility — was found in a concealed state.

"These spaces had been sealed off by erecting walls, which had to be demolished during the investigation," he said.

He added that the entire area had been filled with garbage, which investigators had to clear in order to expose the crime scenes. He was personally present at the time, Tajul said.

"When we unknowingly entered one centre, we found bombs had been planted there — some fitted with timers. It appears there was an apparent attempt to assassinate those who were conducting the investigation," he told reporters.

"As the prosecution has yet to bring these findings to light, many may assume that no real investigation has taken place. However, once formal charges are submitted, people will begin to understand the extent of what has been uncovered," he added.