RAWALAKOT (Kashmir English): The Poonch Division administration has accused armed members of the proscribed Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) of blocking major roads leading to Rawalakot and surrounding markets, creating food shortages.
In a statement, the administration alleged that miscreants associated with the banned JAAC blocked roads by cutting trees and placing stones on key routes, stopping transporters from delivering essential food items to Rawalakot and nearby areas.
It stated that when security personnel launched a joint operation to clear obstructions and reopen the roads, the action committee members opened fire in the Kotira Pothi Makwalan area.
It claimed that armed men positioned along roadsides and surrounding hills used modern weapons and fired thousands of bullets at security personnel, along with making announcements from nearby mosques to incite the people against the operation.
The administration claimed that armed groups had occupied several locations, including mosque premises and a high school building, and had maintained road blockades for nearly a month, affecting the movement of goods and people.
According to the statement, the miscreants have blocked five main roads, among which the Bagh–Rawalakot route has now been reopened, while efforts are continuing to clear other blocked roads.
The administration further said individuals allegedly involved in the incidents were being identified through video footage and warned that legal action would be taken against those found responsible or supporting unlawful activities.
It also urged the public to verify information before sharing it on social media and appealed to local and national media to exercise caution while reporting on the situation.
