Staff Correspondent, Dhaka
The International Crimes Tribunal has said that former police chief Chowdhury Abdullah Al-Mamun may be granted a conditional pardon for becoming a state witness in the July killings case, provided he discloses details of his own crimes as well as those of his associates.
This directive was included in a written copy of the order issued by International Crimes Tribunal-1 on Saturday, following the signatures of the presiding judges.
The order states that, considering all aspects, the tribunal believes the accused Chowdhury Abdullah Al-Mamun may be granted a pardon on the condition that he reveals complete and truthful details about the July killings, and provides all information he has regarding the allegations and the individuals involved.
He has accepted this pardon under the condition that he will comply with these requirements and appear before the tribunal to testify whenever summoned.
The order further notes that since Chowdhury Abdullah Al-Mamun has been pardoned and has accepted it, he must be kept separated from other inmates in prison for his safety.
The relevant prison authorities have been instructed to take necessary measures, and the tribunal’s registrar has been directed to stay in contact regarding this matter.
Earlier, on July 10, former inspector general of police (IGP) Chowdhury Abdullah Al-Mamun admitted responsibility for crimes against humanity committed during the mass uprising of students and civilians.
That day, he told the International Crimes Tribunal: “The allegations of murder and mass killings against us during the July–August movement are true. I plead guilty to these charges. I want to become a state approver and disclose the full details of the crimes committed during the July–August movement. I wish to assist the court in uncovering the truth.”
Mamun made these statements during the charge-framing hearing in International Crimes Tribunal-1, led by Justice Md Golam Mortuza Mojumdar and two other judges.
On the same day, the tribunal formally framed charges against three accused, including former prime minister Sheikh Hasina. It rejected the plea for dismissal and ordered the trial to proceed.
