The defence counsel for 15 army officers produced before the International Crimes Tribunal-1 today in three separate cases over crimes against humanity has claimed that his clients are innocent, alleging that "the real perpetrators have fled to India."

Barrister M Sarwar Hossain, representing the accused, made the remarks while speaking to reporters after the hearing.

"Earlier, in compliance with the Army Headquarters' directive, the 15 officers voluntarily surrendered before the International Crimes Tribunal out of respect for the law," he said. "They are all senior and experienced officers, many of whom have served in international missions. They hope to receive justice through this court."

Following the hearing, the tribunal ordered the accused to be sent to jail. The officers were later taken to the sub-jail inside Dhaka Cantonment under tight security.

However, the prosecution disputed the claim of voluntary surrender. The chief prosecutor told the tribunal that the officers had not surrendered on their own but were arrested by police and then brought before the court.

Prosecution sources said the Dhaka Cantonment Police arrested the officers yesterday and that jail authorities produced them before the tribunal today.