Photo: BSS

DHAKA, Sept 6, 2026 (BSS) - Chief Prosecutor of the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) Md Aminul Islam today said there is no reason to consider the criminals as friends at all times, as they may “strike at any time in their own way.”

He made the remarks while responding to questions from the journalists at his office here.

The Chief Prosecutor said the incidents of enforced disappearance have been described as a ‘widespread and systematic attack’ because of the individual cases bear similarities to one another.

“For this reason, we have identified them as widespread and systematic crimes and considered them as crimes against humanity,” he said.

He said the involvement of the same individuals has repeatedly emerged in connection with the 251 victims of enforced disappearance who have so far not returned.

“That is why we are calling it as a widespread and systematic crime,” he said.

The Chief Prosecutor said, “We believe there is no reason to consider the criminals as friends at all times. They may strike at any time in their own way. Keeping this in mind, we are carrying out our work. Just as we are remaining vigilant, we will ask the government to remain equally alert. We will also advise the families of the victims to remain cautious.”

He stressed the need to ensure that the investigation is not disrupted in any way and that no one can sabotage the process or create any obstacle to the investigation.

The Chief Prosecutor further said security personnel at the tribunal have been alerted and instructed to strengthen the security measures.

“Some of the movements and activities of certain accused persons have appeared suspicious to them,” he said, adding, “We have some confidential information that some of them may carry out acts of sabotage or subversive activities at any time.”

Regarding the proposed law on enforced disappearances, the Chief Prosecutor said, “You know that a law called the Enforced Disappearance Prevention and Remedy Act is already in the process of being enacted. It is a highly timely law. Through this law, the prosecution of enforced disappearance cases across the country may gain a new momentum.”

He said those involved in enforced disappearances are “extremely powerful and criminal elements,” and that the prosecution is taking this into account while remaining vigilant.

“We are requesting the members of the families of the disappeared to remain alert. We are also asking law enforcement agencies to stay vigilant and seeking overall cooperation from the government,” he added.

“Above all, we will complete the investigation into the enforced disappearances as quickly as possible and bring those responsible to trial,” he said.

Meanwhile, 55 families of victims of enforced disappearance visited the Chief Prosecutor’s Office today led by Sanjida Islam Tuli, coordinator of Mayer Dak, an organisation representing the relatives of victims of enforced disappearance.

The investigation agency will record statements from the family members.