Unrest in Bangladesh: Over 1,300 Arrested in Crackdown on Ex-Regime Loyalists

Bangladeshi police launched a significant operation on Saturday, targeting gangs linked to the ousted regime of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. The operation has resulted in over 1,300 arrests so far, with authorities aiming to dismantle the networks allegedly connected to Hasina's previous rule. Overseen by a special "command centre" team, the government's initiative has been tasked with coordinating the efforts of law enforcement agencies across the nation.

The operation comes six months after Sheikh Hasina fled Bangladesh amid chaotic scenes in Dhaka, where crowds stormed her palace. Jahangir Alam Chowdhury, head of the interior ministry, has vowed to uproot the "devils" associated with the former regime. The interim government has pointed fingers at Hasina, blaming her for the recent surge in violence. Hasina is currently in exile in neighboring India, having defied an arrest warrant to face trial for alleged crimes against humanity.

Protests erupted following reports that Hasina intended to appear in a Facebook broadcast from her place of exile. In the Dhaka district of Gazipur, clashes broke out between anti-Hasina protesters and members of her Awami League party. Protesters caused significant damage by using excavators to demolish buildings linked to Hasina's family. Among the destroyed sites was the museum and former home of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, Hasina's late father.

The situation underscores heightened tensions and widespread unrest earlier this month. The ongoing security operations aim to stabilize the region, yet skepticism remains regarding their potential effectiveness.

"I don't think this drive will significantly improve the worsening law and order situation," – Snehadri Chakravarty

"To me, it seems like mere eye-wash." – Snehadri Chakravarty

The crackdown reflects the interim government's determination to restore order while confronting lingering loyalties to Hasina's regime. Despite the large number of arrests, the complexity of dismantling entrenched networks poses a considerable challenge.