Secret recordings obtained by Al Jazeera reveal that Sheikh Hasina, former prime minister of Bangladesh, ordered security forces to use lethal weapons against student protesters in 2024. The recordings, analyzed by audio forensic experts to rule out AI manipulation, include a July 18th call where Hasina explicitly instructed the use of lethal force, stating, “My instructions have already been given. I’ve issued an open order completely. Now they will use lethal weapons, shoot wherever they find them.” Another recording features discussions about using helicopters to control demonstrations. These calls are likely to be used as evidence in the International Criminal Tribunal (ICT), where Hasina and others face crimes against humanity charges following the deaths of nearly 1,400 and injuries to over 20,000 during protests sparked by an unpopular quota system.

The ICT’s chief prosecutor, Tajul Islam, stated that Hasina was aware of the recordings. Medical professionals corroborated the use of lethal force, describing unusual bullet wounds on student protesters. Al Jazeera’s reporting also details alleged manipulation of a postmortem report concerning a student protester killed by police, Abu Sayed, and the government’s subsequent attempt to appease victims’ families. The Awami League, Hasina's party, denies the authenticity of the recordings and the nature of the orders given.

Impact Statement: The revelations could significantly impact the ongoing trial of Sheikh Hasina and other officials at the International Criminal Tribunal, potentially leading to harsher sentences. The credibility of the Bangladeshi government is also severely damaged.