RAWALAKOT (Kashmir English): Four law enforcement personnel were martyred and more than 20 police and security officials were injured after armed banned JACC individuals opened fire on security personnel during a protest in Rawalakot, according to a statement issued by the Office of the Inspector General of Police, Azad Jammu and Kashmir.
The police statement said that armed elements affiliated with the banned Action Committee had gathered in Rawalakot under the guise of a protest and targeted law enforcement personnel deployed on duty.
According to the statement, the firing resulted in the martyrdom of four officials, while over 20 police and security personnel sustained injuries. The injured were shifted to medical facilities for treatment. Authorities said the casualties suffered firearm and gunshot wounds.
According to police sources, the assistant sub-inspector and two police officers martyred in the attack on the CMH by the Banned Action Committee belong to Rawalakot, while a Federal Constabulary officer was also martyred.
Attack on CMH Rawalakot Condemned
The Inspector General of Police strongly condemned the incident and said that the attack was part of a pre-planned attempt to disrupt law and order. The statement further claimed that armed individuals also targeted CMH Rawalakot during the unrest.
Police authorities termed the attack on the hospital a serious violation of the law, saying it endangered patients, medical staff, injured personnel and civilians present at the facility.
Police Describe Incident as Terrorism
According to the police statement, the incident was not a peaceful political protest but a coordinated armed attack against state institutions, law enforcement agencies, and public order.
The IG Police said direct firing on law enforcement personnel, the resulting casualties, and the alleged attack on CMH Rawalakot constituted an act of terrorism under the law.
He stated that legal action would be taken in accordance with the Constitution and relevant laws, adding that no armed group would be allowed to undermine public safety, state authority or the security of citizens.
Tribute to Martyred Personnel
Azad Jammu and Kashmir Police paid tribute to the martyred officials and expressed solidarity with their families. Authorities said all necessary measures were being taken to ensure the treatment of injured personnel.
The police reiterated that there would be no compromise on maintaining state writ, public peace, and the security of citizens, adding that the law would take its course.
