Bangladesh’s joint forces, led by the army, say they arrested 278 people in coordinated operations across the country over the past week, alongside seizures that include illegal firearms, ammunition, crude bombs/cocktails, and narcotics. The scale of the drive signals a renewed, high-visibility push to curb violence and organized crime ahead of heightened political activity and public gatherings.

Weapons and contraband recovered
Officials said the raids resulted in the recovery of 22 firearms and 822 rounds of ammunition, along with explosive-related items and locally made weapons. Such seizures matter not only for immediate public safety but also for preventing downstream threats—street crime, extortion rackets, and the intimidation networks that often rise during periods of political tension.

Why it matters for safety and stability
A nationwide sweep of this size typically aims to disrupt supply lines, deter repeat offenders, and reassure the public—especially in urban corridors and transport-linked districts where violence can quickly spill into wider disruption. With crowds expected around political programs and winter travel continuing, security agencies appear focused on preventing flashpoint incidents before they emerge.