Bangladesh’s security forces arrested 1,308 people during “Operation Devil Hunt,” which was launched in response to violent protests. The interim government aims to root out those responsible for the turmoil and has vowed to continue the operation until all suspects are apprehended.

Operation Begins After Clashes

The operation began on Saturday after student activists were injured during vandalism at an Awami League leader’s residence near Dhaka. As a result, the army, police, and specialized units detained 274 people within the first 24 hours. Most arrests were made in urban areas, while others were detained across the country.

Targeting Unrest and Criminal Activity

Home Affairs Adviser Lt Gen (Retd) Jahangir Alam Chowdhury explained that the operation focuses on those trying to destabilize the country. "The operation will continue until all devils are rooted out," he stated. Here, “devils” refer to individuals involved in criminal activities, terrorism, and law-breaking.

81 Awami League Members Arrested

In Gazipur, 81 Awami League activists were arrested after violent clashes. These clashes prompted the launch of Operation Devil Hunt. On Friday night, 14 people were injured during an attack on former minister Mozammel Haque’s residence.

Unrest After Hasina's Ouster

The violence was part of a larger national uprising that ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in August 2024. Hasina and several former officials now face charges for their role in suppressing the student-led protests. As a result, Hasina fled to India and has been living in exile since.

Operation Aims for Justice

Jahangir Alam confirmed that the operation would bring those behind the Gazipur attacks to justice. "Many of those responsible have already been arrested," he added. "Those who haven’t will be caught soon." Therefore, authorities are confident in apprehending all culprits.

Command Center Set Up

In response to the unrest, a command center has been established to monitor the situation. Shafiqul Alam, Press Secretary to the Chief Adviser, said the center would help law enforcement respond quickly. "We hope the law and order situation will improve with the center’s establishment," he added.

Student Movement Claims Attack

The Anti-Discrimination Student Movement claimed its activists went to Haque’s house to stop looting but were attacked by others. Subsequently, protests continued, and one student was injured in a shooting outside the Deputy Commissioner’s office in Gazipur.

Violence Spreads Nationwide

The violence spread across the country after Hasina's online address on Wednesday night. Mobs targeted her supporters, vandalizing homes and businesses in Dhaka and other cities. Moreover, protesters set fire to Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s historic residence, intensifying the unrest.

Calls for Law and Order Restoration

Chief Adviser Yunus called for an end to attacks on the properties of Hasina’s family and her supporters. Meanwhile, the BNP, led by former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, urged the interim government to curb mob violence. They announced nationwide rallies starting February 11, demanding improved law enforcement and an electoral plan.