Dhaka: Home Adviser Lieutenant General (Retd) Md Jahangir Alam Chowdhury announced today that extensive operations have been conducted nationwide to apprehend criminals and miscreants in anticipation of the 13th national parliament election and referendum-2026. The goal of these operations is to ensure a free, fair, impartial, and peaceful polling environment.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, following a meeting of the Advisory Council Committee on Law and Order at the Home Ministry, the Home Adviser reported that a total of 53,367 individuals have been arrested so far. Of these, 33,513 people were apprehended based on existing cases and warrants. Furthermore, 19,854 arrests were made under the ongoing Operation Devil Hunt Phase-2, which was launched on December 13, 2025.
Law enforcement agencies have also seized a significant amount of illegal arms and explosives during this operation, including 346 firearms, 2,191 rounds of bullets, 722 cartridges, 694 indigenous weapons, grenades, mortar shells, gunpowder, and bomb-making materials. The government’s stance is firm on suppressing any activities that could potentially hinder or affect the elections, as emphasized by the Home Adviser.
Instructions have been given to all law enforcement agencies to take swift legal action against anyone attempting to disrupt the electoral process. Security measures have been notably strengthened across the country, with increased check posts, patrols, and special operations aimed at preventing terrorists and criminals from moving freely and recovering illegal and looted weapons.
The Home Adviser expressed gratitude to members of the armed forces, police, and other law enforcement agencies, acknowledging their coordinated efforts in maintaining stability in the law and order situation. He confidently stated, “With the joint efforts of all, we will be able to give the nation the gift of a free, fair, impartial, peaceful and festive national election, Insha Allah.”