Sylhet, Dec 24 (V7N) — A large-scale joint security operation titled “Operation Devil Hunt Phase-2” has intensified across the Sylhet Division, leading to widespread arrests and heightened surveillance as authorities seek to restore law and order, recover illegal weapons, and curb what officials describe as extremist and destabilizing activities.

Since the operation began on the evening of Saturday, December 13, law enforcement agencies have arrested a total of 78 individuals across Sylhet Metropolitan City and the four districts of the division within nine days. Police confirmed that all detainees have been produced before courts and sent to jail.

According to district-wise data, the highest number of arrests was recorded in Moulvibazar district. Police reported that 35 people were arrested in Moulvibazar, 18 in Sylhet district, 17 in Sylhet Metropolitan City, and 8 in Sunamganj. No arrests have been reported so far in Habiganj district.

The operation has focused primarily on leaders and activists of banned political parties and their affiliated organizations. Night-time raids, intensified patrols, checkpoints, and intelligence-based surveillance have been expanded across urban and rural areas of the division. Although no illegal firearms have been recovered yet, security agencies say the operation remains active and ongoing.

Arrests have been carried out in multiple upazilas, including Golapganj, Beanibazar, Bishwanath, Companiganj, Fenchuganj, Zakiganj, Dirai, Chhatak, and several areas of Moulvibazar district. Those detained include former and current local government representatives, union parishad chairmen, former vice chairmen, municipal and upazila-level leaders, and office bearers of various affiliated organizations.

In Moulvibazar alone, those arrested include leaders and activists from Awami League, Jubo League, Chhatra League, Swechchhasebak League, Krishak League, Sramik League, and other associated bodies. Similar arrests have taken place in Sylhet district and Sylhet Metropolitan City, involving ward-level, union-level, and upazila-level leaders.

In Sunamganj district, several youth and student leaders, as well as local political figures, were arrested during targeted operations in Chhatak, Dirai, and surrounding areas.

Meanwhile, controversy has emerged over an incident in Sylhet city’s Nazirergola area, where a Chhatra League leader was reportedly detained and later released. Some alleged he was freed due to external influence, though police have denied the claims.

The operation follows a decision announced on December 10 after a meeting of the Ministry of Home Affairs’ law and order core committee. At a press briefing, Home Affairs Adviser Lieutenant General (retd) Jahangir Alam Chowdhury stated that “Operation Devil Hunt Phase-2” was launched to intensify efforts to recover looted and illegal weapons and to suppress violent extremist activities. He also noted that legal firearm licenses would be issued to eligible election candidates and that previously deposited licensed firearms would be returned.

Sylhet District Assistant Superintendent of Police and media focal point Md. Samrat said the operation is being conducted nationwide under ministry directives, with the aim of stabilizing law and order, bringing offenders under the law, and ensuring public safety through intelligence-led actions.

Sylhet Metropolitan Police Additional Deputy Commissioner (Media) Md. Saiful Islam said regular patrols, checkpoints, and targeted raids have been strengthened under the operation. He emphasized that arrests are being made only against individuals with specific allegations and cases, and that police are exercising maximum caution to prevent harassment of innocent citizens. The special operation, he added, will continue to ensure the safety and security of residents.

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