Dhaka, Aug 05 (V7N)- The digital forensics team of the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) has claimed to have uncovered information regarding an alleged secret communication network used during the July-August 2024 unrest, including details surrounding former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s final communications before leaving the country.
According to a report, investigators found evidence suggesting that while nationwide internet services were disrupted during the movement, a separate high-speed internet connection was allegedly maintained at Ganabhaban through a satellite-based backup system.
Digital forensic expert of the ICT, Tanvir Hasan Joha, said that despite the countrywide internet shutdown at the time, internet connectivity remained active at Ganabhaban through the Bangabandhu Satellite system, where a high-speed connection was reportedly configured.
The report said that after the announcement of the one-point demand on August 3, several phone numbers were contacted from Sheikh Hasina’s device. Investigators claimed that among the contacted numbers, some appeared to have names, photographs and national identity information, but the identities could not be verified.
According to the forensic findings, Sheikh Hasina later shifted to alternative communication methods over security concerns regarding her regular phone number. The report claimed that she used a satellite phone and contacted Indian Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar regarding temporary asylum arrangements.
Following developments in Delhi, Sheikh Hasina and her sister Sheikh Rehana reportedly travelled to the Kurmitola area by an Air Force MI-17 helicopter. Investigators said that during a short stay at the VIP lounge, several phone communications were made before the departure.
The report further claimed that forensic analysis of text messages sent during the period is still ongoing, while investigators are examining communication records involving relatives and associates.
It also mentioned former military officer Ziaul Ahsan, who was arrested in a disappearance case, and alleged that he had maintained a separate server system at his residence and removed contact information related to Sheikh Hasina.
Tanvir Hasan Joha said investigators found evidence of a separate power and server setup at the location, which they described as a possible “digital mirror” system.
However, the allegations and findings reported by the ICT digital forensics team are part of an ongoing investigation, and further verification and legal proceedings will determine the final conclusions.
END/SMA/AJ
