Four security personnel were martyred and three members of the proscribed Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) were killed during violent unrest in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), as law enforcement agencies cleared the siege of Combined Military Hospital (CMH) Rawalakot, police said on Monday.
Attack on Law Enforcement
According to a statement issued by the spokesperson for AJK Inspector General of Police Liaqat Ali Malik, armed elements affiliated with the banned JAAC launched a planned attack on law enforcement personnel on Sunday evening and later laid siege to CMH Rawalakot. The blockade disrupted routine medical services and patient care at the hospital, while armed protesters allegedly resorted to indiscriminate firing, arson and vandalism, causing damage to public and private property.
Coordinated Operation
Law enforcement agencies conducted a coordinated operation during the night between June 7 and 8 to clear the hospital premises. Authorities said the safety of civilians, patients, medical staff and government property remained their top priority throughout the operation. “The siege of CMH Rawalakot has been completely removed, and the hospital has been fully cleared. Medical services have been restored,” the police spokesperson said.
Casualties and Restoration
Officials said four security personnel, including three AJK Police officials and one Frontier Constabulary (FC) member, were martyred in firing by violent elements since June 6. Several other personnel were injured during the clashes. The spokesperson added that three members of the banned action committee were killed and several others injured during the unrest.
Authorities said law and order has been restored in Rawalakot, highways have largely reopened, and business activities have resumed in the area. AJK Police and other law enforcement agencies reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining peace and protecting lives and property. Legal action against those involved in the violence is underway, while funeral prayers for the martyred personnel will be offered with full official honours.
The police chief also urged citizens to avoid participating in activities linked to the banned organisation and to rely only on official sources for information.
