Interim government’s Home Affairs Adviser, Brigadier General (retd.) M Sakhawat Hossain, issued a stern warning on Monday, saying that those involved in the looting of weapons during the quota reform protests must surrender the arms within a week or face severe consequences.
Speaking to journalists at the Combined Military Hospital in Dhaka, where he visited injured Ansar personnel, Hossain emphasized the urgency of the situation. “The looted weapons must be surrendered to the respective police stations by next Monday. If found later, strict measures will be taken,” he said.
He further cautioned those in possession of illegal weapons, giving them a seven-day ultimatum to turn in the arms. “If you fail to surrender them within the given time, you will face two charges—possession of illegal weapons and possession of prohibited government arms,” the Adviser warned.
Addressing the Awami League, Hossain remarked that the party has every right to reorganize. However, he warned that any attempt to create chaos would have dire consequences. “The Awami League can reorganize without any issues, but if they try to cause disorder, the outcome will not be favorable,” he stated.
In response to another question regarding the Awami League, Hossain advised the party to focus on reorganization and avoid endangering lives. “Reorganize your party like a proper political organization. When elections come, contest them. But if you dream of counter-revolution, it will result in the loss of thousands of lives,” he cautioned.
Highlighting the historical significance of the Awami League, Hossain acknowledged the party’s contributions to the country. “This is a significant party, and I have a lot of respect for the Awami League. At one time, it was the hope of the Bengalis. Don’t destroy the legacy of the movements of ’52, ’69, and the Liberation War for personal reasons,” he emphasized.
Hossain also expressed his concern about the loss of lives in recent events. “We don’t want to see more deaths. Already, 400 to 500, maybe even more, people have died… We restrained the army, instructing them not to open fire because whom would you shoot? You’ve already used the police to kill our own children,” he said.
The Adviser concluded by urging the Awami League not to destroy the party for personal interests, reminding them of the legacy of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. “This was our pride, the dream of Bangabandhu. You have no right to destroy it. It is the property of Bangladesh. If anyone thinks they can bring about a counter-revolution, it will require the blood of thousands. If you are willing to take that responsibility, then there’s nothing more I can do,” Hossain added.
