RAWALAKOT: Armed and violent elements of a banned action committee attempted to disturb law and order in Rawalakot on the evening of June 7, officials said.
They opened fire on law enforcement personnel in a planned attack, according to security sources. The attackers later besieged the Combined Military Hospital (CMH) Rawalakot, severely disrupting medical services and treatment activities.
The assailants also set fire at multiple locations and damaged both public and private property, officials said.
Law enforcement agencies responded with what they described as a professional, restrained and targeted operation conducted during the night of June 7–8.
Authorities said the operation successfully ended the siege of CMH Rawalakot. They added that the safety of civilians, patients, medical staff and public property was given top priority.
Medical services at the hospital have now been fully restored, officials said.
Security sources said that since June 6, four law enforcement personnel have been killed in the violence. These include three police officials from Azad Kashmir and one Frontier Constabulary personnel. Several others were injured.
They further claimed that three members of the banned action committee were killed in what they described as indiscriminate firing by their own side. Multiple others were injured during the clashes.
Officials said the area has now been cleared of violent elements. Roads have largely been reopened for traffic, while markets and commercial centers have resumed normal activity.
Azad Kashmir Police and other law enforcement agencies said they are continuing operations to maintain law and order and protect public life and property.
Funeral prayers for the slain personnel will be held with full official honors, authorities said.
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Officials warned that legal action against armed and violent elements is ongoing, and pledged that those responsible for unrest will soon be brought before the law.
The public has been urged to avoid involvement with the banned action committee and to rely only on verified official sources for information.
