Web Desk: All police and law enforcement personnel taken hostage during an overnight standoff at a security checkpoint near Palandri were safely recovered early Sunday, while legal action against those involved remains underway.
Officials said the personnel, who had been held at Dhil Check Post by armed members allegedly linked to a banned faction of the Awami Action Committee, were released without injury and have since returned to their homes.
Officials said the suspects would face charges related to unlawful detention of public servants, intimidation of state institutions and other violations of the law. They added that authorities would not tolerate attempts to undermine the writ of the state or exert pressure through armed action.
According to officials, the hostage situation unfolded late Saturday when armed individuals seized several police and law enforcement personnel stationed at the checkpoint near Palandri.
Security forces refrained from launching an immediate operation because of the checkpoint’s proximity to residential areas and concerns about civilian casualties. Instead, authorities opted for a measured approach aimed at securing the safe release of the hostages.
Meanwhile, Deputy Commissioner Palandri and other district officials remained actively engaged throughout the night, coordinating efforts to resolve the situation peacefully.
The incident has renewed concerns over attempts by armed groups to pressure state institutions through force. Authorities maintained that those involved would be held accountable under the law and warned against any future efforts to challenge state authority.
Read more: Public Action Committee Protest call failed, says AJK opposition leader
