More journos under ICT scanner

More journalists are under investigation over allegations that they incited or assisted killings and abuses during the July Uprising, according to International Crimes Tribunal Chief Prosecutor Aminul Islam.

Three journalists are already in custody as part of the investigation, he told reporters at the ICT Prosecution Office on Thursday.

Aminul said formal complaints had been filed against several journalists and were being investigated by the tribunal’s investigation cell.

“Some of these journalists are accused of inciting and assisting a fascist government in committing various crimes against humanity,” he said.

“They are also accused of making provocative statements during the July movement and of providing assistance in the commission of crimes.”

Journalists Shyamal Dutta, Mozammel Babu and Farzana Rupa were formally arrested on Aug 24 in a crimes against humanity case over allegations of inciting killings and abuses during the uprising.

Two of them had previously been arrested in the Shapla Chattar case.

Aminul said investigations were also continuing against other journalists facing specific allegations.

If investigators find evidence of wrongdoing and prima facie elements of crimes against humanity, formal reports will be submitted and charges brought before the tribunal, he said.

The chief prosecutor declined to say how many journalists were under investigation or identify them, saying disclosure could hamper the inquiry.

He added that a formal complaint filed by an individual had been recorded and was being investigated.

Sagar-Runi Case
Separately, Aminul said prosecutors had come across a "clue" related to the murders of journalist couple Sagar Sarowar and Meherun Runi while investigating another case.

He said the information would be handed over to the task force investigating the murders.

Any further information or supporting evidence that emerges during the prosecution's ongoing investigations would also be collected and passed on to the relevant investigators, he added.    �"bdnews24