The International Crimes Tribunal-1 has formally begun the trial of retired Major General Ziaul Ahsan on charges of crimes against humanity involving enforced disappearances and killings. The tribunal, chaired by Golam Mortuza Mojumdar with members Shafiul Alam Mahmud and retired judge Mohitul Haque Enam Chowdhury, ordered the start of proceedings on Wednesday. The court also set February 8 for opening statements and witness testimony.

Earlier, on January 8, Ahsan’s lawyers, Monsurul Haque and Naznin Nahar, sought his discharge, arguing that the prosecution had failed to prove his involvement. Chief Prosecutor Tazul Islam opposed the plea, asserting that the prosecution had established a prima facie case. The tribunal had reserved its order for January 14 before deciding to proceed with the trial.

According to the prosecution, Ahsan faces three specific charges, including the killing of detainees in Gazipur in 2011, executions in Barguna’s coastal areas under operations codenamed “Gestapo” or “Golf,” and staged “crossfire” killings in the Sundarbans under operations “Nishankhali,” “Mora Bhola,” and “Kotka.”