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Former DB chief Mohammad Harun Or Rashid
Audio conversations presented before the International Crimes Tribunal-2 have brought new details to light regarding the controversy surrounding the release of photos showing student movement coordinators being served food at the Detective Branch (DB) office during the July uprising.
On Sunday, prosecutor Gazi Monawar Hossain told the tribunal that then-Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina had expressed dissatisfaction over the publication of those images, as reflected in recorded conversations.
According to the prosecution, former DB chief Mohammad Harun Or Rashid sought help from Awami League General Secretary Obaidul Quader to prevent his transfer. In the audio, Harun is heard saying that he would be removed from his post if intervention did not occur immediately.
Subsequently, on July 31, 2024, Harun was transferred from the DB to the position of Additional Commissioner (Crime and Operations) of Dhaka Metropolitan Police.
In another exchange, Quader informed Harun that the leadership was unhappy about the release of the photos. Harun responded by saying the decision to take and publish the photos had been made under instructions from the home minister and senior officials.
The tribunal also heard multiple other phone conversations involving senior political figures, including discussions on handling the uprising, administrative decisions, and law enforcement strategies.
One conversation referenced using a death as a political “issue,” while another included directives to regain control of Rajshahi University areas. Discussions about slowing down internet services and banning Jamaat-e-Islami and its student wing were also presented.
The prosecution argued that such decisions were part of a broader strategy to suppress the movement and label protesters under specific political identities.
The case names seven accused, including Obaidul Quader, all of whom are currently reported to be absconding.
https://thedailyexpress.news/news/national/1f194175-9d73-6230-a3a2-36b9dcb2589e