RAWALAKOT: Authorities in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) say security forces have ended the siege of Combined Military Hospital (CMH) Rawalakot following a targeted overnight operation, while four law enforcement personnel were martyred during recent unrest in the area.
According to a statement issued by the spokesperson for the Inspector General of Police, Azad Kashmir, violent and armed individuals associated with a banned action committee allegedly attempted to disrupt law and order in Rawalakot on the evening of June 7. Officials said the group opened fire on law enforcement personnel and later surrounded CMH Rawalakot, affecting medical services and hospital operations.
The spokesperson said the operation was carried out during the night between June 7 and June 8 to restore control of the hospital and ensure the safety of patients, medical staff, civilians and public property.
Authorities stated that the hospital has been fully cleared and all medical services have resumed normal operations.
Four personnel martyred in recent violence
According to the police statement, four members of law enforcement agencies were martyred and several others injured in firing incidents since June 6.
The deceased included three personnel from the Azad Kashmir Police and one member of the Frontier Constabulary.
Officials also claimed that three individuals linked to the banned action committee were killed and several others injured during incidents involving what authorities described as indiscriminate firing by the group’s members.
Authorities say normalcy restored
The police spokesperson said security forces have dispersed violent elements in Rawalakot and restored law and order in the city.
According to the statement, most highways have reopened to traffic, while markets and commercial centers have resumed normal business activities.
Authorities said legal action against those involved in the violence is continuing and that funeral prayers for the martyred personnel will be offered with full official honors.
Public urged to avoid unlawful activities
The police appealed to residents to avoid participating in activities associated with the banned organization and to refrain from spreading or believing unverified information.
Citizens were urged to rely on official sources for updates regarding the security situation and ongoing developments in the region.
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