Rawalakot operation continues as law enforcement agencies intensify action against armed groups in Rawalakot, Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK). Officials launched the operation after a series of attacks targeted security personnel across the city.
Speaking at a press conference, AJK Police spokesperson Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Khawar Ali Shaukat said armed attackers had occupied several buildings. Consequently, security forces launched operations to restore order and protect civilians.
Security Forces Respond to Armed Attacks
SSP Shaukat said armed groups repeatedly attacked police and other security personnel in different parts of Rawalakot.
He stressed that authorities would not tolerate violence against state institutions. Furthermore, he warned that those involved would face strict legal action.
During the clashes, one Rangers official embraced martyrdom. Meanwhile, security forces continued clearing areas occupied by the attackers.
Police Arrest Several Suspects
Security personnel arrested multiple suspects during the ongoing operation.
Officers also recovered sophisticated weapons from several detainees. Investigators are now examining whether the suspects have links to wider militant networks operating inside or outside the region.
However, officials have not released additional operational details because the investigation remains active.
Authorities Condemn Violence
SSP Shaukat strongly condemned the attacks on security forces and government institutions.
He said police exercised restraint throughout the unrest. However, they will now respond firmly to anyone attempting to disrupt public order.
In addition, he accused anti-state elements of spreading misinformation on social media to create instability in Azad Jammu and Kashmir.
According to the police spokesperson, protecting peace and public safety remains the government’s highest priority.
Violence Linked to Banned JAAC
Authorities linked the recent violence to supporters of the banned Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) during the ongoing AJK Legislative Assembly elections.
The AJK government declared JAAC a proscribed organisation on June 5 under the Anti-Terrorism Act. Officials alleged the group participated in terrorist activities.
The decision came shortly before JAAC planned demonstrations demanding the removal of 12 reserved assembly seats allocated to refugees from Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK).
Federal Government Supports Security Efforts
Pakistan’s federal government described the unrest as an attempt to disrupt the election process and destabilise the region.
Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry said Islamabad would fully support the AJK administration in restoring order.
Speaking alongside Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, he claimed the banned group’s actions aimed to stop citizens from exercising their democratic right to vote.
Elections Continue
Despite the security situation, the first phase of the AJK Legislative Assembly elections concluded on July 27.
According to unofficial and provisional results, the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) won nine of the 13 constituencies contested across Mirpur, Kotli, and Bhimber districts.
The Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) secured the remaining four seats.
Authorities say security forces will continue the Rawalakot operation while ensuring that the remaining election phases proceed peacefully and securely.
