The so-called ‘Operation Devil Hunt-2’ under the leadership of the interim government in Bangladesh is now becoming a symbol of political oppression rather than law and order. The police claimed to have arrested 663 people from across the country in just 24 hours, while nine illegal weapons were said to have been recovered. According to the Bangladesh Police Headquarters, this action is being taken in the name of recovering illegal weapons and restoring law and order. But local media and human rights organizations say that the real target of this campaign is the former ruling Awami League and critics of the government.
According to reports, the strategy of crushing the opposition is being adopted under the pretext of controlling the atmosphere before the February 2026 elections. ‘Pratham Alo’ and other media institutions have reported that more than 11,000 people have been arrested since the first phase started in February, including a large number of Awami League supporters. Police claimed that thousands of vehicles were searched and hundreds of motorcycles were seized as part of the operation. But critics say that all this has become a means of creating fear in the people and suppressing the voice of opposition.
The Awami League has launched a scathing attack on the Yunus government, alleging that the “illegitimate rulers” in power are pushing the country towards chaos and ‘mob terrorism’. The party says that the incidents of murder, rape, robbery and violence have increased rapidly, but the government is avoiding accountability. According to analysts, the way the police actions are being given a political color has raised serious questions about the prospects of democracy and fair elections in Bangladesh.