Joy, Palak are masterminds of July massacre: Chief Prosecutor

International Crimes Tribunal Chief Prosecutor Mohammad Tajul Islam has named ousted prime minister Sheikh Hasina's son Sajeeb Wazed Joy and former ICT State Minister Junaid Ahmed Palak as one of the 'masterminds' of the July 2024 massacre.

At a press briefing at the International Crimes Tribunal premises on Wednesday (February 18), he said that Joy and Palak played an important role in planning the massive massacre of students and protesters by shutting down internet services across the country during the July 24 uprising. A case of crimes against humanity has been filed against them.

The Chief Prosecutor said that the accused tried to hide the news of the incident from the world by shutting down the internet. Moreover, Palak hatched various conspiracies and plans in consultation with the then Prime Minister's advisor Salman F. Rahman.

The prosecution presented its opening statement in the case today, marking the start of the formal trial. The tribunal has set February 25 as the date for the first witness to testify in the case.