This operation, conducted by a joint force comprising the Bangladesh Army, Police, Rapid Action Battalion (RAB), and even student groups allegedly involved in anti-discrimination efforts, has resulted in the arbitrary arrest of over 5,000 individuals without warrants or specific charges. Among those arrested are elderly individuals above 70 years of age, cancer patients, and women—many of whom are being targeted solely due to their political beliefs and affiliations with the Awami League and its associated organizations.
JMBF asserts that such a massive crackdown is being used as a tool to silence dissent and eliminate opposition voices. These politically motivated arrests violate fundamental human rights and undermine the principles of justice and due process.
Robert Simon, a prominent French human rights activist and Chief Adviser of JMBF stated:
“The use of state and military forces alongside student groups to arrest opposition leaders and supporters is not only unjust but also an alarming betrayal of the democratic values and the rule of law that Bangladesh should uphold.”
Advocate Shahanur Islam, Founder & President of JMBF, further emphasized:
“The arbitrary mass arrests of individuals without legal warrants and the targeted persecution of political opponents under the present interim government, led by former Nobel Laureate Professor Muhammad Yunus, undermine the very foundation of justice and fairness. Such practices must not be tolerated in any democracy and must stop immediately.”
JMBF demands the immediate cessation of Operation Devil Hunt, the release of all unlawfully detained individuals, and an impartial investigation into the conduct of the joint forces involved in these abuses.
JMBF also calls on the international community to hold the Bangladeshi government accountable for these violations and to ensure that the fundamental rights of all individuals—regardless of their political affiliation—are fully respected.
JMBF is closely monitoring the developments surrounding Operation Devil Hunt and will continue to advocate for justice and the protection of human rights in Bangladesh.
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