Violence broke out in Azad Kashmir when protesters allegedly attacked police, snatched weapons, and opened fire on security personnel.
According to an injured officer, protesters also targeted police residences, setting belongings on fire despite repeated warnings from authorities.
Police and civilians attacked
Witnesses reported that miscreants forcibly seized weapons from police before firing at them. Protesters also climbed mountains despite an official ban, further intensifying the unrest. Several police homes were attacked, and belongings were burned during the clashes.
PM Shehbaz Sharif expresses concern
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed serious concern over the situation in Azad Kashmir. He stated that peaceful protest is a constitutional right but condemned violence that threatens public order. Sharif assured that the government is committed to resolving the issues of the Kashmiri people and ordered law enforcement to show restraint while handling protesters.
He also announced a transparent investigation into the incident and immediate relief for affected families.
Negotiation committee formed
To ease tensions, the government expanded its negotiation committee. Senior leaders including Rana Sanaullah, Sardar Yousaf, Ahsan Iqbal, Masood Khan, and Qamar Zaman Kaira were tasked to hold talks in Muzaffarabad. The prime minister said he would personally monitor the committee’s progress.
Defense Minister Khawaja Asif also appealed for peace, reminding citizens of the sacrifices made in the struggle for Kashmir’s freedom. He urged protesters to reflect on the hardships faced by generations living under occupation.
Death toll rises
The Azad Kashmir government confirmed that nine people, including six civilians and three policemen, were killed in Dhirkot. More than 100 police officers were injured, with twelve in critical condition. Around 50 civilians were also reported injured.
Authorities urged the public not to fall for fake news being spread online and assured that those responsible for the violence would face strict punishment.
In other news read more about Azad Kashmir Strike Turns Violent: One Dead, Many Injured
