The Office of the Chief Adviser has confirmed the arrest of 36 members of the banned organization Hizb ut-Tahrir in various parts of the country since last Friday. Among those detained is Saiful Islam, a prominent organizer of the group. In a press release issued on Saturday (March 8), the office stated that law enforcement agencies are analyzing footage from recent gatherings to identify and arrest more members involved in the organization’s activities.

Inspector General of Police (IGP) Baharul Alam emphasized that the arrests were made in connection with the group’s participation in political programs, which is prohibited under the ban. Multiple cases have been filed against the members under the Anti-Terrorism Act, according to the press release.

The arrests follow a recent incident where Hizb ut-Tahrir members staged a protest after Friday prayers at Baitul Mukarram’s north gate. Despite police barriers, the group managed to organize a rally, chanting slogans and displaying banners. The protest eventually moved towards Paltan and Vijaynagar before police dispersed the crowd using tear gas and sound grenades.

Earlier on Thursday, three members were arrested during a raid in Uttara sectors 11 and 12 by the Counter-Terrorism and Transnational Crime (CTTC) unit of Dhaka Metropolitan Police. A case was filed against them under the Anti-Terrorism Act at Uttara West Police Station.

Hizb ut-Tahrir, banned in 2009 for anti-state activities, has been operating covertly since then. However, the group has recently become more visible, organizing rallies and distributing leaflets in Dhaka and other areas. On Friday, they posted notices and distributed pamphlets at Dhaka University and other locations in the capital, announcing their program at Baitul Mukarram.

The group has been active in recent months, holding rallies and roundtable discussions in Dhaka and Chattogram. On August 5, they organized a rally in Dhaka, marking the fall of the Awami League government. Their activities have raised concerns among law enforcement agencies, prompting increased surveillance and action.

The Chief Adviser’s Office reiterated its commitment to maintaining law and order, stating that any attempts to destabilize the state or violate the ban on the organization will be met with strict legal action. The police are continuing their investigation to identify and apprehend other members involved in the group’s activities.

The arrests and ongoing crackdown highlight the government’s efforts to curb the influence of banned organizations and ensure public safety. Authorities have urged citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities related to such groups.