Crimes against humanity: Prosecution seeks confiscation of Hasina’s assets for victims’ families

The prosecution today said it had requested the International Crimes Tribunal-1 for confiscating the assets of Sheikh Hasina and her two top aides, to be distributed among victims' families if the accused are convicted in the crimes against humanity case.

Prosecutor Gazi Monawar Hossain Tamim said the request was made under provisions of the tribunal law, which allow such measures.

"A life lost can never be compensated, but financial restitution can partially support families. As the law permits, we sought confiscation of the accused's assets. Whatever order the tribunal delivers in the interest of justice will be accepted by the prosecution," he said.

The tribunal is set to deliver its verdict tomorrow in the case against ousted prime minister Sheikh Hasina and two of her top aides.

Tamim said the prosecution had sought the highest punishment -- the death penalty -- for Hasina and former home minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal.

Former inspector general of police Chowdhury Abdullah Al-Mamun, who later became an approver, has also been accused in the case. The court will decide on his matter.

Tamim added that the prosecution believes it has proven all five charges brought in the case beyond a reasonable doubt.