Awami League president Sheikh Hasina yesterday urged the members of the Armed Forces to carry out the hunt for illegal arms and arms holders by maintaining neutrality and rising above political opinions, reports UNB

Expressing concern at the deteriorating law and order In the country, she said

heinous crimes like killing and hijacking have become a regular phenomena.

She said in a statement that the people, particularly traders, students, teachers and women, had become hostage at the hands of the terrorists.

Hasina expressed happiness at the news that the armed forces would begin countrywide operation to recover illegal arms from today.

The Awami League chief said that a certain quarter had exploited the Armed Forces in the past to gain political interest.

"The members of our Armed Forces have earned name and fame by serving in the UN peacekeeping mission.” she said. Hasina also lauded their role at times of natural calamities at home.