Another implicates Taher, Noni in murder

A prosecution witness yesterday corroborated the allegation of murder of one Fazlur Rahman in Netrakona by war crimes accused Obaidul Haque alias Taher and Ataur Rahman alias Noni during the 1971 Liberation War.

The 22nd prosecution witness, Shanto Miah, told International Crimes Tribunal-1 that it was a Tuesday morning on August 17 when Obaidul and Ataur along with 20-25 Razakars and the Pakistani occupation army went to Baushi Bazar.

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They detained four-five persons and beat Hannan Chowdhury and Abdul Hye before taking them in front of one Ranjan Saha's shop, he said.

Fazlur arrived at the shop and was detained. "Since Fazlur was a supporter of Awami League, he was repeatedly pierced with bayonets," Shanto said. Releasing the others, Obaidul and Taher took him to Dak Bungalow of Netrakona, he said.

Fazlur's relatives went to Obaidul's father Maulana Monjurul Hoque's residence seeking his release but were forced out by Monjurul, said Shanto. Later, Obaidul and Ataur took Fazlur near Trimohoni Bridge and shot them there, he said.

After his deposition, the defence began cross-examining Shanto. Proceedings were adjourned until today.

Obaidul and Ataur are facing six charges for their alleged involvement in genocide and crimes against humanity in Netrakona during the Liberation War.