Security measures have been heightened in and around the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) in anticipation of the announcement of the verdict date for the crimes against humanity case involving former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and two others related to the July mass uprising incidents. The International Crimes Tribunal-1, led by Justice Md Golam Mortuza Mojumder, is set to declare the verdict date today.
In response to the pending announcement, the Awami League, which is currently prohibited from engaging in political activities, has declared a “Dhaka lockdown” initiative. Various security forces, including police, Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB), and the Armed Police Battalion (APBn), have been deployed in and around the court premises, with additional army patrols visible in the area.
Talebur Rahman, the DMP’s DC (Media), stated that the Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) has intensified security by deploying extra personnel throughout the city to prevent potential acts of sabotage and uphold law and order. Checkpoints have been established at entry points to Dhaka since Wednesday, where thorough searches of public transportation and individuals deemed suspicious have been conducted, continuing as part of the heightened security measures.
Earlier today, a group affiliated with “Janajot Biplobi Mancha” initiated a procession from Doel Chattar near the Mazar Gate, advocating for the death penalty for former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. However, their progress towards the International Crimes Tribunal was halted by law enforcement at the Mazhar Gate, leading the protesters to commence a sit-in demonstration beside the Mazar Gate.