RAWALAKOT: Four members of law enforcement agencies were martyred and more than 20 security officials injured after armed activists linked to the banned Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) allegedly opened fire during unrest in Rawalakot on Monday, according to Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) police.
An AJK police spokesperson strongly condemned the attack, stating that security personnel were deliberately targeted during the violent confrontation. The injured included police officers and other law enforcement officials deployed in the area.
Authorities said the situation was later brought under control, with security forces dispersing the attackers and restoring law and order. Most major roads were reopened, while business activities and markets resumed normal operations.
The incident follows the AJK government’s recent decision to declare the Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee a banned organisation under anti-terrorism laws ahead of its planned June 9 protest campaign.
Officials confirmed that legal proceedings against individuals involved in violent activities were underway. Law enforcement agencies are continuing efforts to identify and arrest those responsible for the attack and related disturbances.
The police spokesperson paid tribute to the martyred personnel, saying they sacrificed their lives while performing their duties. Funeral prayers for the fallen officials will be held with full state honours.
Citizens were urged to avoid participation in activities organised by the banned group and to rely solely on verified information released through official channels. Authorities also warned against spreading rumours or misinformation regarding the situation.
Meanwhile, Federal Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Dr Tariq Fazal Chaudhry criticised the banned organisation, accusing it of attempting to create unrest despite the government’s efforts to address its concerns.
Speaking at a press conference in Islamabad, he said the federal government had fulfilled commitments made under previous agreements, including compensation for affected families and the withdrawal of numerous protest-related cases. He added that a committee formed by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif had engaged in dialogue with the group and monitored implementation of agreed measures.
Despite these steps, the minister said, the organisation had once again announced protest activities. He further alleged that attempts were being made to disrupt the democratic process and create instability in the region.
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