ICT security beefed up

Security has been stepped up around the International Crimes Tribunal in view of Thursday's scheduled verdict on the war crimes charges against Jamaat-e-Islami leader Delwar Hossain Sayedee.

Barricades surrounding the entrance to the first war crimes tribunal on High Court premises have been put up amid apprehensions of violence with Shahbagh protesters demanding capital punishment for all war criminals and Jamaat enforcing countrywide strike asking for the release of their leaders.

Police also put up barricades at Doyel Chattar, Bangabazar, Secretariat and Matsya Bhaban areas.

Policemen said security was increased to prevent Jamaat activists from running amok as they have done often in recent weeks.

Vehicles, however, are allowed to pass through a controlled opening at the barricades.

Police vehicles were seen patrolling streets in the areas at a regular interval.

Journalists were allowed to enter the tribunal only after a thorough check of their identity cards.

The official responsible for security of tribunal’s judges, prosecutors and witnesses, Binoykrishna Bala said sufficient security measures have been taken and police was ready to thwart any attempt to foment trouble.

Members of Rapid Action Battalion were also deployed at the High Court premises to help police and plain cloth detectives were also on duty.