MUZAFFARABAD: At least four law enforcement personnel, including a sub-inspector, have been martyred and 89 others injured during violent incidents linked to activities of the outlawed Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), according to an official police briefing.
Official sources said that several violent episodes have occurred recently that involve attacks on security forces and damage to government property. In one such instance, hoodlums reportedly attacked CMH Rawalakot, where not only was the hospital ransacked but patients were also beaten up. Also, an APC belonging to security forces suffered from gunshot wounds and its tyres punctured during the attack.
Sources said that a considerable amount of law enforcement force has been dispatched to restore law and order in Rawalakot area. They further explained that efforts are being made to curb the disruptive elements in the area.
Despite the unrest in some parts of Azad Kashmir, officials stated that the overall security situation in Azad Kashmir is quite stable at present. Sources said that normalcy prevails in all parts of several districts including Bagh, Kotli, Mirpur, Bhimber, Sudhnoti, Haveli, Jhelum Valley, Muzaffarabad and Neelum with just some areas having restricted traffic.
Police informed that 81 cases have been registered from June 6 to June 14 due to the involvement of violence. During this time period, 425 people were arrested, and illegal arms and ammunitions, iron knuckles, communication tools, and others belonging to the accused have been recovered by authorities.
It was further highlighted by officials that around 400 individuals associated with the banned organization have been enlisted under the Fourth Schedule.
In addition, it is said that the joint efforts of law enforcement agencies have been successful in maintaining a satisfactory law and order situation within the region, as inter-district movement as well as all other entry points are open and functional.
Police requested citizens to remain calm, not be involved in spreading rumours, and work in coordination with law enforcement agencies. Citizens were also warned against involvement in unlawful assemblies and were asked to immediately contact the nearest police station whenever they come to know about any such gathering.
An official spokesperson of Inspector General of Police said that the security forces are highly determined to restore full normalcy and ensure safety of life and property within the region.
