Leaked Audio Implicates Ex-Bangladesh PM in Deadly Crackdown

Leaked Audio Implicates Ex-Bangladesh PM in Deadly Crackdown

A leaked audio recording, verified by BBC Eye, suggests that former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina authorized a violent crackdown on student-led protests last year.

Key Allegations

The audio reveals Hasina allegedly instructing security forces to "use lethal weapons" and "shoot" protesters. Bangladeshi prosecutors intend to use the recording as key evidence in Hasina's trial for crimes against humanity.

The Unrest and Casualties

The unrest resulted in up to 1,400 deaths, according to UN investigators. Hasina and her party deny the charges.

Authenticity Verified

The recording, captured by the National Telecommunications Monitoring Centre (NTMC) on July 18 in Dhaka, is considered significant evidence. Forensics experts confirmed the audio's authenticity.

Police Massacre Uncovered

The investigation also uncovered details of a police massacre in Jatrabari, Dhaka, where at least 52 people were killed. The incident occurred on August 5, when police indiscriminately fired on protesters after army personnel vacated the area.

Aftermath

The UN and human rights groups have condemned the violence, and the trial against Hasina has commenced, though her extradition from India is unlikely. Since the protests, Bangladesh has been under an interim government led by Muhammad Yunus.