The International Crimes Tribunal-2 on Thursday sentenced two police officers to death for the murder of Begum Rokeya University student Abu Sayeed, recognized as the first martyr of the July 24 Revolution. The tribunal also handed life imprisonment to three others, ten-year sentences to five, five-year sentences to eight, and three-year sentences to eleven individuals. Those convicted include police officials, university teachers, administrators, doctors, and student leaders. The verdict was delivered by a three-member panel led by Justice Nazrul Islam Chowdhury.

The tribunal found the 30 accused guilty of crimes against humanity, including targeted and systematic killings, political persecution, and joint criminal responsibility. Six of the accused are currently in custody, while 24 remain fugitives. The prosecution expressed satisfaction with the verdict but may appeal after reviewing the full judgment. In contrast, the defense announced plans to appeal, claiming unfair sentencing.

Abu Sayeed’s family and fellow students expressed dissatisfaction, saying more perpetrators deserved capital punishment. The prosecution and victims’ families called for the swift execution of the death sentences and the arrest of those still at large.