During a road clearance operation in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) on Wednesday, an armed group allegedly belonging to the banned Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) opened fire on law enforcement personnel. One Ranger soldier was martyred, and another was seriously injured.
The firing took place during the clearance of the Sarsawa to Tarar Khel road. Snipers from the armed group opened fire on the security personnel.
Ranger soldier Shah Nawaz was hit by a bullet in the chest and was martyred. Lance Naik Bilal was also seriously injured after being shot in the shoulder. The martyred personnel, Shah Nawaz, belonged to Khairpur, Sindh.
The clearance operation is being carried out to reopen blocked roads following strong demands from local residents.
The road closures have caused serious problems for travel and have also led to shortages of food.
Reports said the use of modern weapons and explosives against security personnel was a planned act of terrorism.
‘Banned JAAC damaged roads worth billions’
Inspector General of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) Captain (retd) Liaquat Ali Malik spoke to media representatives on Tuesday about the protest situation and law and order. He also spoke about the activities of the banned Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC).
Talking about the damage and violence during the banned JAAC’s protests, the AJK IG said that roads built at a cost of billions of rupees were dug up and damaged. He also said that trees were cut down and handed over to the timber mafia.
Captain (retd) Liaquat Ali Malik also said that some people linked to the JAAC had been talking about closing bazaars and markets.
He said the protests have affected tourism and educational activities in Azad Kashmir. This has also caused difficulties for ordinary citizens and the business community.