MUZAFFARABAD – A road-clearing operation in Azad Kashmir turned deadly after armed members allegedly linked to the banned Joint Awami Action Committee opened fire on Rangers personnel, leaving one soldier martyred and another seriously wounded.
The attack took place as security forces moved to reopen the Sarsawa-Tarar Khel road, which had remained blocked and disrupted access for local communities.
According to reports, suspected snipers from the armed group targeted the law enforcement personnel during the operation. Rangers soldier Shah Nawaz was struck by a bullet in the chest and later succumbed to his injuries, while Lance Naik Bilal sustained a gunshot wound to the shoulder and was seriously injured.
Shah Nawaz, who hailed from Khairpur, Sindh, became the latest casualty of the confrontation as security personnel attempted to restore road access.
The operation was launched following growing demands from residents facing severe hardships because of the blocked routes. Transportation had been badly affected, while shortages of food and other essential supplies added to difficulties for people in the affected areas.
The security personnel came under attack while attempting to clear the road and reconnect communities cut off by the blockades.
Experts have characterised the reported use of modern firearms and explosive material against security forces as a coordinated act of terrorism. They said the sacrifice of the Rangers personnel underscores the challenges facing the state in restoring law and order.
They also called for immediate and strict legal action against armed groups responsible for attacks on law enforcement agencies and state institutions, stressing that the state’s writ must be upheld without discrimination.
JAAC Protests
