Web Desk: Five people, including law enforcement personnel, were injured when armed individuals opened fire during a security operation targeting members of a banned action committee in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), police said Tuesday.
According to a statement issued by the Deputy Inspector General of Police, Mirpur Region, security personnel came under fire while conducting an operation in the Kotli district to enforce the law and clear security checkpoints.
The police accused armed elements associated with the banned action committee of attacking security personnel, raising fresh concerns about public safety and law enforcement challenges in the region.
Police said the incident occurred when law enforcement agencies launched an operation against individuals linked to the banned action committee.
Authorities were carrying out security measures, including clearing checkpoints and enforcing restrictions, when armed individuals opened fire on the personnel.
The sudden shooting left several people injured and prompted an emergency response from security officials.
According to the police statement, the operation formed part of ongoing efforts to maintain public order and prevent activities that authorities consider a threat to regional security.
The police statement identified injured personnel from Pakistan Rangers and AJK Police, along with a civilian who sustained injuries during the incident.
Among those named were Constable Saadat and Sepoy Faisal Ahmed of Pakistan Rangers, as well as Sub-Inspector Javed and another AJK Police official identified as Waqas.
A civilian identified as Umar Hussain was also reported injured.
Authorities said the injured were transported to a nearby hospital for medical treatment.
However, police did not immediately provide detailed information about the severity of their injuries.
Following the incident, police strongly condemned the attack and accused armed elements associated with the banned action committee of attempting to undermine peace and stability in AJK.
The police statement rejected the committee’s claims of peaceful activity, alleging that the shooting demonstrated the involvement of violent individuals.
Furthermore, authorities maintained that attacks on security personnel would not deter law enforcement agencies from performing their duties.
Meanwhile, the Mirpur police leadership announced that individuals responsible for the shooting would face legal proceedings.
Officials said investigators would pursue those involved and ensure that the perpetrators were brought before the courts.
The police also reiterated that no individual or organisation would receive immunity from legal action for violating the law or threatening public safety.
According to the statement, security agencies remain committed to protecting citizens, maintaining public order and ensuring the enforcement of existing laws.
The Deputy Inspector General’s office emphasised that protecting lives and property remains a central responsibility of law enforcement agencies.
Authorities said security personnel would continue performing their duties despite threats and attempts to obstruct operations.
The incident comes amid continuing tensions involving the banned action committee and law enforcement authorities in AJK.
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