Recover the looted weapons

During the student-public uprising on August 5, attacks and looting occurred at various police stations and outposts across the country, leading to the fall of Sheikh Hasina’s government. According to data from the Police Headquarters, a total of 5,750 weapons were looted, along with 651,609 rounds of ammunition. Although, through joint operations, 4,331 of these weapons were recovered, 129 rifles of 7.62 bore, 30 SMGs, four LMGs, and a total of 1,419 firearms are still missing.

Additionally, several automatic weapons from the Special Security Force (SSF) were stolen from the Prime Minister's residence on August 5. Some of these stolen weapons are now reportedly in the hands of juvenile gangs. Needless to say, such news is a matter of great concern and alarm. From July 18, the day of the anti-discrimination student movement’s complete shutdown program, to August 8, there were attacks on police stations and posts, rebellions inside jails, escapes, and incidents of violence. During this time, 460 police stations across the country were attacked, including those in Dhaka.

The escape of at least 700 notorious criminals from jail has further fueled public concerns about security. The inability to trace such a large number of weapons and apprehend these fugitives has created widespread anxiety among the public. Meanwhile, identified criminals continue to commit crimes using the looted weapons. Robberies and other crimes involving firearms are increasing in various places. A joint operation, launched on September 4, continues with the primary aim of recovering the looted weapons, according to police officials.

Social and crime experts have expressed concerns that the looted weapons could be used in political conflicts, violence, and criminal activities. There are reports of criminals possessing these weapons. Along with the looted firearms, the escapees from jail also pose a threat to public safety. Research indicates that illegal weapons in the hands of individuals often lead to violent crimes, including murder.

As long as these weapons remain in the hands of criminals, they pose a significant threat to the people of the country. Therefore, we must emphasize that the recovery of these looted weapons is crucial for maintaining law and order and public safety. Immediate special operations are required to recover all looted firearms, ensuring that neither identified criminals nor others can misuse them.