Rawalakot security operation underway as AJK police confirm action against armed groups

Security forces have launched an operation against armed groups in Rawalakot, Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), after gunmen allegedly occupied several buildings and opened fire on law enforcement personnel, according to the AJK Police spokesperson.

Security forces have launched an operation against armed groups in Rawalakot, Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), after gunmen allegedly occupied several buildings and opened fire on law enforcement personnel, according to the AJK Police spokesperson.

Speaking at a press conference on Wednesday, SSP Khawar Ali Shaukat, spokesperson for the Azad Jammu and Kashmir Police, said armed individuals had taken positions inside various buildings in the city. He stated that security forces responded by initiating a full-scale operation to regain control of the affected areas.

According to the police spokesperson, one Rangers personnel was killed during the attack. He said the operation resulted in the arrest of several suspects, who were allegedly found in possession of modern weapons. Authorities have not yet released further details regarding the identities of those detained or the exact number of arrests made.

Shaukat alleged that the armed groups were linked to elements seeking to destabilize the peaceful environment in Azad Kashmir. He also claimed that authorities were aware of what he described as negative propaganda being circulated on social media by hostile actors.

The spokesperson emphasized that state institutions had exercised restraint throughout the situation but warned that attacks on law enforcement agencies would not be tolerated. He said security forces remained committed to restoring law and order and ensuring those responsible for the violence are brought to justice.

“The writ of the state will be upheld, and anyone challenging it will face legal action,” he said, adding that police and other law enforcement agencies would continue operations until the security situation is fully brought under control.

Authorities said every possible measure is being taken to restore peace and protect residents in the affected areas. Security personnel remain deployed across Rawalakot, while the operation continues.

Officials have not yet released additional information regarding the motive behind the attack or whether any further casualties have occurred. The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities are expected to provide further updates as the operation progresses.

The developments have heightened security concerns in the region, with officials reiterating their commitment to maintaining public order while urging the public to rely on verified information and avoid the spread of unconfirmed reports as the situation evolves.