A tragic security incident unfolded in Rawalakot, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, where four law enforcement personnel were martyred and more than 20 police and security officials sustained injuries after armed activists linked to the banned Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) allegedly opened fire on security forces.
According to police officials, the attack targeted law enforcement personnel who were carrying out their duties to maintain public order. Authorities described the assault as a deliberate and preplanned act aimed at creating unrest in the region. Following the incident, security forces launched an operation to disperse the armed elements involved in the violence.
The attack occurred just days after the AJK government declared the Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee a prohibited organization under anti terrorism laws ahead of a planned protest rally. The group has previously organized demonstrations related to economic concerns and political rights, some of which resulted in clashes with authorities in recent years.
Officials confirmed that law and order has largely been restored in the affected areas. Major highways have been reopened, commercial centers are functioning normally, and security personnel remain deployed to ensure public safety. Authorities also praised the bravery and sacrifice of the police officers and security personnel who lost their lives while performing their duties.
The Inspector General’s office stated that legal action against those involved in the violence is ongoing. Investigations are being conducted to identify and arrest all individuals responsible for the attack. Authorities have also urged citizens to avoid participating in activities organized by banned groups and to rely only on official sources for information.
Meanwhile, government representatives emphasized that several demands raised during previous negotiations had already been addressed. Officials maintained that efforts to preserve peace, stability, and democratic processes in Azad Jammu and Kashmir would continue despite attempts to create disorder.
