In a decisive crackdown to quell escalating violence across Bangladesh, security forces have arrested over 1,300 individuals as part of a nationwide operation named 'Operation Devil Hunt.' The unrest, which has targeted properties linked to deposed Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s family and leaders of the Awami League, has prompted swift action from the interim government.

The operation, spearheaded by Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus, was launched following violent clashes in Gazipur, near Dhaka, where student activists were injured in an attack on the residence of an Awami League leader. The violence soon spread to other parts of the country, with mobs vandalizing symbols associated with the ruling party.

Comprising army personnel, police, and special units, the joint forces have detained 1,308 individuals connected to the disturbances that have gripped the nation for the past four days. The interim government, completing six months in power, has pledged to eliminate elements seeking to destabilize Bangladesh.

Sheikh Hasina was ousted in August 2024 amid widespread protests that began as a student-led anti-quota movement. Following her removal, continued clashes between members of the Awami League and supporters of Yunus’s government—largely affiliated with the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and allied groups—have fueled unrest.

On Wednesday, protesters set fire to the historic residence of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the founding leader of Bangladesh, where he once declared the country’s independence from Pakistan in 1971. The act has intensified concerns over the growing unrest.

Home Affairs Adviser Lt Gen (Retd) Jahangir Alam Chowdhury stated, "The operation will continue until all those attempting to destabilize the country are eliminated."

Sheikh Hasina and several senior leaders of her administration are facing multiple charges, including crimes against humanity, for their response to the July mass protests that ultimately led to her government’s downfall on August 5, 2024. Since then, the 77-year-old former Prime Minister has been residing in India.

Despite accusations that the crackdown disproportionately targets Hasina’s supporters, Home Affairs Adviser Md Jahangir Alam Chowdhury maintained that the operation is solely focused on those disrupting national stability.

"This operation is aimed at individuals engaging in unlawful activities, creating unrest, and committing acts of violence," he explained.

A dedicated command center has been established to oversee 'Operation Devil Hunt' and ensure its effective execution, according to a statement from the Chief Adviser’s office.

On Friday, Chief Adviser Yunus called for restoring law and order, condemning attacks on properties belonging to Hasina’s family and Awami League leaders. He emphasized the need for a complete return to stability.

Meanwhile, the BNP, led by former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, urged the government to curb growing public disorder, warning that failure to act could lead to the resurgence of authoritarian forces. The party has announced a series of nationwide rallies beginning February 11 to demand concrete steps toward restoring law and order and establishing a clear electoral roadmap.