The Inspector General (IG) of Police, Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), Capt. (Retd.) Liaqat Ali Malik said that four law enforcement personnel were killed and more than 20 police and security personnel were injured in firing allegedly carried out by armed members of the banned Joint Awami Action Committee.
In a press release by the AJK Police, IG AJK said that four law enforcement personnel were killed, and more than 20 police and security officials were injured after armed men linked to a banned organisation opened fire during unrest in the CMH Rawalakot, according to the Inspector General of Police in Azad Jammu and Kashmir.
He said the group had gathered under the cover of a protest and targeted officers who were on duty in the area.
According to police, four members of the security forces were killed in the shooting, while more than 20 others sustained gunshot injuries. The wounded were taken to the hospital for treatment.
The police chief said the incident was not a peaceful political demonstration but a coordinated armed attack that targeted state institutions, public order and law enforcement agencies.
He also condemned an attack on the Combined Military Hospital (CMH) in Rawalakot, saying it had put patients, medical staff, injured personnel and members of the public at risk.
Police described the shooting and the subsequent attack on the hospital as acts of terrorism. Authorities said investigations were underway and that those responsible would face legal action in accordance with the law.
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“No armed group will be allowed to threaten public safety or challenge the authority of the state,” the police chief said.
The statement paid tribute to the officers who were killed, describing their deaths as a sacrifice made in the line of duty to protect public safety and uphold the rule of law.
Police said support was being provided to the families of those who died, while arrangements had been made for the treatment of the injured.
The Azad Kashmir administration said it remained committed to maintaining public order and enforcing the law, adding that there would be no compromise on the safety of citizens or the authority of state institutions.
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