Dhaka, Dec 18 (V7N) — Chief Prosecutor Tajul Islam on Wednesday said that investigations have confirmed BNP leader Ilias Ali was abducted and later killed.

He made the statement while responding to journalists’ questions after a three-member Tribunal-1, headed by Justice Md Golam Mortuza Majumder, took cognizance of charges against Ziaul Ahsan.

Tajul Islam told reporters that the abduction of BNP leader Sajidul Islam Sumon and seven others was carried out under the direct instructions and supervision of Ziaul Ahsan. He said investigations have established that Ilias Ali was forcibly taken and subsequently murdered. He further stated that Ziaul Ahsan was also the key planner behind several other enforced disappearances, including those of Islami Chhatra Shibir leader Golam Kibria, Hafez Zakir, and Chowdhury Alam.

The chief prosecutor also alleged that Ziaul Ahsan was involved in the abduction of BNP leader Salahuddin Ahmed and his subsequent trafficking to India. He said the cases have been separated for trial purposes to allow for more effective presentation of witnesses and evidence.

Tajul Islam added that charges have so far been submitted in connection with more than 100 killings. He said investigators have evidence related to over 500 additional killings, which will be filed separately in due course as part of the ongoing judicial process.

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