RAWALKOT: Four law enforcement officers were killed and more than 20 police and security personnel were injured on Saturday in a premeditated attack by armed militants linked to the banned Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) in Rawalakot, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, police officials said.
Inspector General of Police (IGP) Azad Jammu and Kashmir condemned the attack, describing it as a coordinated act of terrorism targeting state authority, public security, and the Combined Military Hospital (CMH) in Rawalakot. The assailants reportedly gathered under the guise of a protest before opening fire on officers on duty.
The injured personnel, many of whom sustained gunshot wounds, were immediately transferred to medical facilities for treatment. The IGP emphasized that the attack was not a continuation of any peaceful political protest but a deliberate, armed attempt to disrupt law and order and threaten civilian safety.
“The direct targeting of law enforcement officers, the fatalities, gunshot injuries, and subsequent attack on CMH Rawalakot clearly constitutes terrorism,” the IGP said. “The perpetrators will face the full force of the law, and justice will be ensured based on evidence and in accordance with constitutional provisions.”
The police department paid tribute to the fallen officers, calling their sacrifice essential for the protection of peace, public safety, and the rule of law in Azad Kashmir. Measures are being taken to ensure proper treatment for the injured and support for the families of the deceased.
Authorities stressed that there will be no compromise on state authority, public order, or civilian safety, and law enforcement will continue to act decisively against any group attempting to undermine peace and security in the region.
