MUZAFFARABAD (Kashmir English): The Chief Secretary of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Khushal Khan, and the IG of Azad Jammu and Kashmir held a key press conference regarding the security situation of Azad Kashmir.
During the joint press conference, Inspector General (IG) Azad Kashmir has said that maintaining law and order remains the police’s foremost responsibility, adding that strict action will be taken against all those found involved in the Rawalakot violence based on facts and evidence.
Moreover, the IG said that the injured were provided immediate medical aid and treatment, while police personnel actively participated in rescue operations and assisted affected citizens despite facing intense resistance.
He revealed that four security personnel were martyred and several others, including a sub-inspector, were injured after police came under attack during the incidents. Paying tribute to the martyred and injured officials, the IG said police officers fulfilled their duty with courage despite severe violence.
The IG stated that a major incident had been planned and that attempts were made to worsen the situation by gathering crowds at various locations. He alleged that certain elements used women and children as shields during protests and condemned such actions.
According to the briefing, 97 people were injured in the unrest, while 149 cases have been registered. Several suspects have already been arrested, and raids are continuing to identify and apprehend others involved in the violence.
He said investigations into all aspects of the Rawalakot incident are underway, with authorities reviewing videos and other evidence to establish the facts. Incidents involving the desecration of the national flag, provocative acts, forced closure of shops and business centres, and resistance against law enforcement agencies are also being investigated.
The IG urged the public to avoid being misled by misinformation and stressed that unnecessary politics should not be played over the tragic events. He reiterated that attacks on law enforcement agencies are intolerable and that strict legal action will be taken against all responsible elements.
