Web Desk: Law enforcement agencies raided the residence of a senior member of a banned action committee in Pakistan-administered Kashmir and seized a drone, firearms, ammunition and electronic devices, officials said, as authorities widened investigations linked to an ongoing protest movement.
The raid targeted the residence of Khawaja Mehran, a core committee member of the outlawed Awami Action Committee, in Dadyal town of Mirpur district. Mehran is currently participating in a sit-in protest in Rawalakot, according to officials familiar with the operation.
Officials said security personnel conducted a search of the property following reports of suspicious activity.
During the raid, authorities recovered a drone, a 12-bore shotgun with ammunition, a pistol, four USB storage devices, a laptop and equipment allegedly linked to Islamabad police, including a police helmet.
Officials have not publicly disclosed whether any arrests were made during the operation or whether forensic examinations of the seized electronic devices have begun.
Meanwhile, investigators questioned a household employee identified as Shahid Aslam, who was present during the search.
According to officials citing the employee’s statement, Mehran allegedly arranged two ambulances before leaving for the Rawalakot protest site and used them to transport weapons and other materials.
The employee reportedly told investigators that several assault rifles, additional shotguns, large quantities of ammunition and other items were removed from the residence before Mehran’s departure.
He further alleged that stones, slingshots, broken glass bottles and cash-filled packages had also been taken from the property.
The employee also alleged that weapons seized from police during a protest march on Sept. 29 had been transported to Rawalakot along with other equipment. Reuters could not independently verify those claims.
He further claimed that the residence regularly housed weapons and that several individuals with criminal backgrounds had been employed as part of Mehran’s personal security detail.
However, law enforcement agencies have not publicly confirmed those allegations, and no court findings have been issued regarding the claims.
Authorities said the investigation remains ongoing and that evidence recovered during the search is being examined.
No immediate response was available from Khawaja Mehran or representatives of the Awami Action Committee regarding the allegations.
The latest development comes amid heightened tensions surrounding ongoing protests in parts of Pakistan-administered Kashmir, where authorities have stepped up security measures and monitoring of protest organisers.
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