The investigation into the Chankharpool massacre has concluded, with eight individuals indicted for crimes against humanity, including former Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) commissioner Habibur Rahman, who has been named as the prime accused.
Sources from the International Crimes Tribunal confirmed the development on 21 April. The 90-page report was submitted to the tribunal following a 195-day investigation, covering events that transpired between 1 July and 5 August.
According to chief prosecutor Tazul Islam, the accused include former DMP joint commissioner Sudip Kumar Chakraborty, inspector Arshad, constables Md Sujon, Imaje Hossain Iman, and Nasirul Islam. Several others, including Habibur Rahman, remain absconding.
The prosecution alleges that a peaceful protest in the Chankharpool area of Dhaka turned deadly when security forces opened fire with lethal intent, resulting in the deaths of Shahriar Khan Anas, Sheikh Mahdi Hasan Zunaed, Md Yakub, Md Rakib Hawlader, Md Ismamul Haque, and Manik Mia Shahrik.
Investigators found that the accused were either directly present at the scene or orchestrated the operation. They allegedly ordered, facilitated, or supported the use of force and failed to restrain their subordinates or take any corrective measures thereafter. These actions constitute crimes against humanity under the International Crimes Tribunal Act.
The report is backed by testimonies from 79 witnesses and includes 19 videos, 11 newspaper reports, two audio recordings, 11 books and reports, and six death certificates as supporting evidence.
