Mon Feb 10 05:43:07 UTC 2025: ## Bangladesh Cracks Down on Post-Ouster Unrest: Over 1,300 Arrested in “Operation Devil Hunt”
**DHAKA, Bangladesh (February 10, 2025)** – Bangladesh’s interim government launched a major crackdown, codenamed “Operation Devil Hunt,” arresting over 1,300 people following days of nationwide unrest and vandalism. The operation, initiated on February 8th, followed clashes in Gazipur where student activists were injured during attacks on the home of an Awami League leader.
The sweeping arrests, involving army troops, police, and specialized units, saw 274 individuals apprehended in the first 24 hours alone, according to major media outlets. Authorities claim the operation targets those attempting to destabilize the country, with Home Affairs Adviser Lt. Gen. (Retd) Jahangir Alam Chowdhury vowing to continue until all those deemed responsible are apprehended. Over 80 activists from the Awami League, the party of ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, were among those arrested.
The unrest began Wednesday night, escalating after an online address by Ms. Hasina, who fled to India following her government’s ouster in August 2024. Mobs targeted supporters of the Awami League, vandalizing homes and businesses, including the historic residence of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, Bangladesh’s founding father. Ms. Hasina and her colleagues face numerous charges, including crimes against humanity.
The Anti-Discrimination Student Movement, while claiming their activists were attempting to prevent looting, were also involved in the clashes. They reported injuries sustained during the incidents.
The interim government, led by Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus, has called for an end to the violence and the restoration of law and order. A new command center has been established to monitor the situation and coordinate responses. Meanwhile, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) urged the government to curb the violence and prevent the rise of “fascist” forces, announcing nationwide rallies beginning February 11th. The situation remains tense as the crackdown continues.
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