At least seven civilians were killed and 23 police officers injured during violent clashes between law enforcement personnel and supporters of the recently banned Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) in Rawalakot, Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), on Sunday. The unrest came after four police personnel, including a sub-inspector, lost their lives in incidents linked to the ongoing tensions since June 6.
Poonch Commissioner Sardar Waheed Khan confirmed the civilian death toll, while AJK Inspector General Liaqat Ali Malik said that 30 individuals were arrested following the violence. Authorities alleged that protesters attacked the Combined Military Hospital (CMH) in Rawalakot during the unrest.
The confrontation was triggered by the death of a local trader, who was allegedly shot during a clash with law enforcement officials on Friday night.
His family delayed his burial and demanded the withdrawal of the government’s notification banning the JAAC before proceeding with funeral arrangements.
It should be noted that tensions have escalated since the AJK government declared the JAAC a prohibited organization and launched a crackdown against its leadership.
Earlier, the group has announced a long march and protest on June 9. In response, authorities imposed Section 144 in Muzaffarabad, suspended internet services, and deployed Rangers and Frontier Corps personnel at key government installations.
