Dhaka, Feb 16 (V7N) – The International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) has ordered the imprisonment of former Chittagong MP ABM Fazle Karim Chowdhury in connection with a case related to crimes against humanity during the July Movement.

The three-member tribunal, headed by Justice Golam Mortuza Majumdar, issued the order on Sunday (February 16) and directed the authorities to submit an investigation report on the accused by April 8.

According to tribunal prosecutor Gazi MH Tamim, the accused played a key role in supporting and fueling the student-led July Movement, which was met with violent suppression. Prosecutors allege that:

  • Fazle Karim’s constituency, Raozan, supplied weapons and militant forces to counter the movement in Chittagong.
  • He was involved in the murder of martyrs Wasim Akram and Faisal on July 16.
  • He used his political influence to target and oppress student activists.

The prosecution requested his arrest in connection with these charges, and the tribunal accepted the motion, sending him to jail pending further investigation.

During the hearing, Fazle Karim denied any involvement in city politics. In response, the tribunal stated that his legal defense team would have the opportunity to contest the allegations in court.

Meanwhile, prosecutor MH Tamim emphasized that the investigation report would be prepared solely in the interest of justice, not influenced by the government or public opinion.

With the investigation report due by April 8, legal experts anticipate further developments in the case. If substantial evidence is found, Fazle Karim could face formal charges and trial under the International Crimes Tribunal Act.

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