Senior Azad Jammu and Kashmir officials have accused the banned Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) of sheltering armed men and Fitna al-Khawarij elements. AJK Information Secretary Rashid Hanif made the allegations during a press conference and warned that the state would maintain its writ. Hanif claimed armed individuals and militants linked to Fitna al-Khawarij had joined JAAC protests. He also alleged that protesters were using women and children as human shields during demonstrations. Moreover, he urged citizens to avoid believing unverified claims circulating on social media platforms. Hanif said peaceful elections in Mirpur Division had foiled what he described as JAAC’s plans. Meanwhile, a senior AJK Police officer attending the briefing claimed protesters carried modern weapons during demonstrations. According to the officer, protesters possessed M4 rifles, submachine guns and Kalashnikovs. He further claimed police had credible information indicating that snipers were present among the protesters. The DIG also alleged that arrested individuals received cash incentives to carry out attacks during the protests. Furthermore, he said authorities arrested an armed man in Rawalakot carrying an M8 weapon. Initial information, he added, suggested that the suspect had received sniper training abroad. The officer also said armed protesters opened fire on security personnel, injuring a Rangers soldier and five others. However, he maintained that security forces exercised maximum restraint and responded only in self-defence. Finally, the DIG warned that authorities would not allow anyone to challenge the state’s writ or take the law into their own hands. The allegations come amid heightened tensions surrounding protests linked to the JAAC in AJK.