A heated and extended argument erupted today at the International Crimes Tribunal-2 during the cross-examination of a state witness in the Ashulia murders and body-burning case related to the mass uprising in July 2024.
The clash began when defense attorney Syed Mizanur Rahman, representing former additional SP Abdullahil Kafi, questioned approver and former sub-inspector Sheikh Abzalul Haque about his knowledge of the killing of ASI Raju.
Abzalul disclosed that he had left Ashulia Police Station without permission on August 5 last year and returned on August 15. Mizanur then inquired if he had heard about Raju’s death upon his return.
Prosecutor Md Mizanul Islam objected, stating that the defense could challenge the witness’s credibility but could not ask such questions. In response, defense lawyer Mizanur argued that he should be able to inquire, citing the importance of the matter involving Raju’s widow’s plea.
The prosecutor questioned the defense’s submission of documents and witness list, leading to a sharp retort from the defense counsel regarding potential threats to defense witnesses. The exchange referenced a past incident involving a witness in a war crimes case.
The tribunal intervened, expressing frustration at the chaotic turn of events during evidence-taking. Mizanur reiterated the approver’s obligation to disclose all relevant facts, while the prosecutor emphasized the necessity of questions being pertinent to the crimes being tried.
Further questions by Mizanur regarding ASI Raju’s widow’s case were met with objections from the prosecution, who stressed the need to focus on the witness’s credibility. The defense accused the prosecution of not adhering to the law and resorting to intimidation tactics.
The visibly agitated prosecutor prompted the tribunal to remind both sides to maintain decorum. The case involves sixteen accused individuals, with eight currently in custody.