During ongoing tribunal proceedings, testimony has revealed direct orders to employ lethal force against protesters, with allegations of efforts to conceal resulting fatalities. The statements were made in relation to the crackdown on demonstrations that occurred in Savar on July 18, 2024.

According to the testimony, an individual identified as Hasina issued explicit instructions to state forces to shoot protesters on sight. “I have given instructions; now I have given direct instructions; now they will use lethal weapons. Wherever they find them, they will shoot directly,” she was reported to have said. These orders were reportedly linked to the treatment of Ashabul, a student who sustained gunshot wounds during the protest. Footage from the event showed police personnel forcibly removing Ashabul from an armored personnel carrier while critically injured, dragging him along a road, and leaving him on a road divider. Bystanders subsequently transported him to a hospital, where he later died.

The prosecution, represented by Tamim, characterized the actions as potentially constituting crimes against humanity. Tamim asserted that the prosecution would seek to substantiate these serious allegations with evidence if formal charges are established. At the hearing, the prosecution requested the tribunal to frame charges against all 19 individuals accused in connection with the events, noting that six were present during the session while the remaining accused are currently absconding.

Following the prosecution’s statements, defense lawyers appointed by the state initiated their submissions. Scheduled further arguments from defense counsel representing the detained accused are set for October 27.

The tribunal’s proceedings continue amidst heightened scrutiny over the conduct of law enforcement during the protests, with the case drawing significant attention due to the severity of the allegations and the implications for accountability in the use of force against civilians.