ICC prosecutor seeks arrest warrant for Myanmar junta chief over Rohingya persecution
The International Criminal Court (ICC) prosecutor announced on Wednesday that his office is pursuing an arrest warrant for Myanmar's junta leader in connection with crimes against humanity targeting the Rohingya Muslim community.
Karim Khan, the ICC prosecutor stated, 'Following a thorough, independent, and impartial investigation, my office has determined there are reasonable grounds to believe that Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, Myanmar’s Commander-in-Chief and Acting President, is criminally responsible for the deportation and persecution of the Rohingya people.' The alleged crimes, he explained, were committed in Myanmar and, to some extent, in Bangladesh between August 25 and December 31, 2017.
The investigation highlights the role of the Myanmar Armed Forces, supported by national and border police forces as well as local non-Rohingya civilians, in perpetrating these acts. Khan noted this marks the first request for an arrest warrant targeting a high-ranking Myanmar official, hinting that additional legal actions may follow.
The application relies on a broad array of evidence, including witness testimonies, documents, and authenticated scientific, photographic, and video materials. Khan expressed particular gratitude to the Rohingya community, acknowledging the immense suffering endured by over a million individuals forced to flee violence in Myanmar. 'We deeply appreciate those who shared their testimonies, stories, and critical information with my office,' he added.
This move represents a significant step in the ongoing international effort to hold Myanmar’s leadership accountable for its treatment of the Rohingya people.
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