One Rangers personnel was martyred and another injured after armed anarchists of the banned Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) opened indiscriminate fire near the New Bus Stand in Rawalakot early Monday.
According to security sources, the banned JAAC group resorted to firing in a civilian area after failing to mobilise public support for its violent agenda in recent weeks. They revealed that the attackers intended to shift the blame for the incident onto police and security personnel.
Security officials said aerial surveillance detected the alleged movement and activities of the armed assailants. Police responded to the scene but came under fire, prompting Rangers personnel to move in and assist.
During the exchange of fire, one Rangers personnel embraced martyrdom while another sustained injuries. Officials also stated that the attackers used explosives and heavy weapons, targeting a police armoured personnel carrier (APC) and firing in the surrounding area.
Security sources said the incident highlights the presence of armed suspects operating around Rawalakot and the banned JAAC holding residents hostage through the use of force and intimidation.
Earlier, the banned Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) had been accused of abducting four personnel of the Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) Police in Rawalakot, according to official claims.
Authorities said that the four officers were on their way from their homes to report for duty when they were intercepted and abducted by individuals linked to the banned organisation. The abducted officers were identified as Selection Grade Constable Shahid Shafiq, Selection Grade Constable Muhammad Sagheer, Constable Muhammad Ishtiaq and Constable Zeeshan Ishaq.
Officials said that the officers remain in the custody of members of the banned JAAC.
The group’s sit-in in Rawalakot failed to attract significant public support, after which its members allegedly resorted to unlawful activities and attempts to disrupt law and order. They also accused the group’s leader, Khawaja Mehran, and his associates of trying to disturb the peaceful atmosphere in the area.
Also read: Banned JAAC opened fire, created unrest during roads clearance: AJK Spokesperson