- Nationwide crackdown launched after violent attack on students in Gazipur.
- Operation targets individuals attempting to destabilize the country.
- Over 80 individuals arrested, including alleged Awami League members.
- Gazipur police official suspended for negligence during the incident.
- Authorities pledge continued action until all culprits are apprehended.
The Bangladeshi government has launched a nationwide crackdown, ‘Operation Devil Hunt’, to restore law and order after a violent attack on students in Gazipur. Home Affairs Adviser Lt Gen (Retd) Md Jahangir Alam Chowdhury announced that the operation aims to apprehend individuals attempting to destabilize the country.
The crackdown began on Saturday night, following a government decision to take strict action against the attackers. Joint forces, including the police and paramilitary units, are involved in the operation. Authorities have confirmed that the operation will continue until all perpetrators are caught.
Attack on Students Triggers Nationwide Response
The operation was launched after a violent incident on Friday night near the residence of former Liberation War Affairs Minister AKM Mozammel Haque in Gazipur. A group of protesters, including students, was attacked by suspected Awami League activists, leaving at least 18 people injured.
Eyewitnesses reported that the attackers carried sticks and sharp weapons. Some students were severely beaten, requiring immediate medical attention. According to Dhaka Medical College Hospital (DMCH), seven victims are still undergoing treatment for serious injuries.
The attack led to massive outrage, with student organizations and civil society demanding justice. In response, the government declared ‘Operation Devil Hunt’ to bring the attackers to justice and prevent further violence.
Authorities Crack Down on Attack Suspects
Police have arrested at least 83 people linked to the attack. Among them, 40 are leaders and activists of the Awami League, said Gazipur Superintendent of Police Dr. Chowdhury Jaber Sadek. Raids took place across multiple upazilas, and officers are verifying each suspect’s role in the violence. More arrests may follow as investigations continue.
Authorities have already taken disciplinary action against law enforcement officers in Gazipur. Gazipur Sadar Police Station’s Officer-in-Charge, Arifur Rahman, was suspended for failing to act during the attack. Gazipur Metropolitan Police Commissioner Nazmul Karim Khan admitted the response was slow but assured that no attacker would escape justice. An internal investigation is also underway.
Home Affairs Adviser Jahangir Alam Chowdhury warned that the operation would continue until all culprits are caught. He said ‘Operation Devil Hunt’ aims to stop those trying to destabilize Bangladesh. At a press briefing, he stressed that anyone involved, regardless of political ties, would be held accountable. He also assured the public that security forces are working to prevent further violence.
A Coordinated Effort to Maintain Law and Order
Inspector General of Police Baharul Alam explained that ‘Operation Devil Hunt’ is centrally planned and involves multiple security agencies, including:
- Bangladesh Police
- Rapid Action Battalion (RAB)
- Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB)
- Intelligence Agencies
Unlike previous security operations, this crackdown is coordinated from a central control room, allowing authorities to respond swiftly to threats.
Security forces remain on high alert in Gazipur and other sensitive areas to prevent further violence. Police checkpoints and patrols have been increased across major cities.
Public Reaction and Government Accountability
The attack on students has triggered outrage across the country. Opposition parties, human rights groups, and the general public are demanding strict action. Many want both the attackers and negligent police officers to be held accountable. The pressure on the authorities is growing every day.
Political analysts say the government’s response will decide whether people regain trust. Opposition leaders are pushing for a fair and transparent crackdown. They urge authorities to ensure that innocent individuals are not arrested. The demand for justice is louder than ever.
Meanwhile, student groups are taking a stand. They have announced nationwide protests, demanding swift justice. Their goal is not just punishment for the attackers but also stronger protections for citizens. The movement is gaining momentum rapidly.
‘Operation Devil Hunt’ is one of the toughest crackdowns in Bangladesh’s recent history. The government vows to restore order and punish the culprits. As arrests continue, people are closely watching. They want to see if justice is truly served or if this is just another failed promise.