Web Desk: Law enforcement agencies in Azad Jammu and Kashmir restored order in Rawalakot after armed clashes involving members of a proscribed action committee, officials said on Sunday, adding that a security operation cleared the siege of the Combined Military Hospital (CMH) and normal services have resumed.
According to an official press release from the Inspector General of Police, armed individuals linked to the banned committee opened fire on law enforcement personnel on June 7 evening and later surrounded CMH Rawalakot, disrupting medical services and emergency care.
Attackers also set fire to multiple locations and damaged both public and private property during the unrest.
Subsequently, law enforcement agencies conducted a “targeted and limited” operation between the night of June 7 and 8 to disperse the armed groups and lift the hospital blockade. Authorities said they prioritised the safety of patients, medical staff, and government property during the action.
The hospital has been fully cleared and all medical services have been restored.
Security officials said that since June 6, firing by armed elements has resulted in the deaths of four law enforcement personnel, including three from AJK Police and one from the Frontier Constabulary. Several others sustained injuries during the clashes.
The statement added that three members of the banned group were killed in what authorities described as “indiscriminate firing” by their own side, while others were wounded in the exchange of fire.
Some of the casualties occurred during incidents on the night of June 5–6.
Authorities said security forces have dispersed the armed elements and restored calm across the area. They added that most roads have reopened for traffic and markets and commercial activity have returned to normal.
Law enforcement agencies remain deployed to maintain order and ensure public safety, the statement said, adding that efforts to reassert state authority are continuing.
The police said funeral prayers for the slain personnel will be held with full official honours in recognition of their service.
Legal proceedings are underway against those involved in the violence, and pledged to bring organisers and participants of the unrest to justice.
Authorities urged residents not to participate in any activity linked to the banned group and to avoid spreading or believing rumours.
They advised the public to rely only on verified government sources for updates, saying accurate information would continue to be shared as the situation develops.
Read more: JAAC attackers target CMH Rawalakot, one ranger martyred
