MUZAFFARABAD: The Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) Police on Monday said security forces had successfully ended the siege of the Combined Military Hospital (CMH) Rawalakot following a targeted operation against armed and violent elements associated with the recently banned Joint Action Committee (JAAC).
According to an official police statement, the unrest began on the evening of June 7 when armed members of the banned organisation attempted to disrupt law and order in Rawalakot.
Authorities said the group launched a premeditated attack on law enforcement personnel before laying siege to CMH Rawalakot, severely disrupting medical services and hospital operations.
The statement said that armed individuals, posing as protesters, set fires at various locations and damaged both public and private property during the unrest.
Police said law enforcement agencies exercised “exceptional professionalism, restraint and responsibility” in responding to the situation.
During the night between June 7 and June 8, security forces conducted what officials described as a limited and targeted operation to end the blockade and restore normalcy in the area.
Authorities maintained that the safety of civilians, patients, medical staff and public property remained the top priority throughout the operation.
According to the statement, the hospital premises have been completely cleared and all medical services have resumed normal operations.
The AJK Police said that four law enforcement personnel have lost their lives in attacks carried out by violent elements of the banned JAAC since June 6.
The martyred include three AJK Police personnel and one member of the Frontier Constabulary. About two dozen other security officials were also injured during the clashes.
According to the statement, three individuals associated with the banned Joint Action Committee were killed as a result of indiscriminate firing from within their own ranks, while several others sustained injuries. One of the deceased was among the casualties reported during the night of June 5 and June 6, according to officials.
Authorities said security forces have dispersed the armed groups involved in the unrest, restored public order and reopened most major roads for traffic. Markets and commercial centres in Rawalakot and surrounding areas have also resumed normal business activities, the statement added.
The authorities praised the efforts of law enforcement personnel, stating that AJK Police and other security agencies continue to fulfil their responsibilities in safeguarding citizens’ lives and property while maintaining the writ of the state.
Officials also announced that funeral prayers for the four martyred security personnel would be offered with full official honours. The statement described the martyred officials as “sons of the nation” who sacrificed their lives in the line of duty. Meanwhile, legal proceedings against individuals accused of involvement in the violence are ongoing.
Authorities reiterated their commitment to bringing those responsible before the courts and ensuring accountability under the law.
In an appeal to the public, AJK Police urged citizens to avoid participating in activities organised by the banned group or its affiliates. The public was also advised to rely only on verified official sources and refrain from spreading rumours or misinformation.
The statement concluded by assuring citizens that factual and verified updates regarding the security situation would continue to be provided through official channels.
