Mon Jan 06 15:30:13 IST 2025: ## Bangladesh Issues Second Arrest Warrant for Ex-Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina
**DHAKA, Bangladesh** – A Dhaka court has issued a second arrest warrant for former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, this time on charges of enforced disappearances, according to Chief Prosecutor Tajul Islam. This follows an earlier warrant issued in October 2024 on charges of crimes against humanity related to a student-led uprising.
The new warrant names Hasina and 11 others, including military personnel and law enforcement officials, in connection with the alleged abduction of over 500 people during her 15-year rule. Victims have since come forward with accounts of years-long detention in secret facilities.
Islam stated the court aims for a swift trial, emphasizing that due process will be followed. Hasina, 77, fled to India in August 2024 after the uprising that toppled her government. Bangladesh has requested her extradition, but India has yet to respond.
The October 2024 warrant, also issued by a special court, accused Hasina and 45 others of crimes against humanity, including the deaths of hundreds during protests over government job quotas. Dozens of Hasina’s allies have already been arrested and face charges related to the crackdown that followed the uprising, which resulted in over 700 deaths. The interim government, led by Mohammad Yunus, has promised a thorough investigation into the killings and has invited the United Nations to assist. Hasina herself has also called for a full investigation.
First Piper 