Dhaka, May 23 -- The International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) of Bangladesh has amended its rules of procedure to allow investigators and prosecutors to arrest suspects accused of crimes against humanity during the July Uprising without prior approval or a warrant from the tribunal.

The authority, formalised through a government gazette on Thursday, marks a significant expansion of powers for the tribunal.

Previously, investigators had to seek permission from the tribunal before any arrest could be made.

The revised rules-approved by a three-member panel comprising Justice Mohammad Golam Mortuza Majumdar, Justice Shafiul Alam Mahmud, and Judge M Mohitul Haque Enam Chowdhury-were issued under Section 22 of the International Crimes (Tribunals...