Security forces have taken control of Rawalakot city after days of escalating unrest in Azad Jammu and Kashmir.
The situation worsened following violent clashes that left seven civilians and four law enforcement personnel dead, triggering a major security response across the region.
Authorities have increased deployments, checkpoints, and patrols as tensions remain high ahead of the planned protest movement.
JAAC Long March Plan Moves Forward
The proscribed Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) continues to push forward with its planned long march and strike.
Under the original plan, protesters were expected to begin their march from Bhimber and pass through Mirpur, Kotli, and Poonch before reaching Muzaffarabad.
The final destination of the protest was set for June 10, where a sit-in was planned outside the Legislative Assembly.
Despite heightened security, officials confirm that protest activity and mobilization efforts are still ongoing in several districts.
Rawalakot Placed Under Security Lockdown
Rawalakot has effectively been placed under a strict security lockdown.
Markets remained closed, public transport disappeared from roads, and movement across the city became heavily restricted.
Security checkpoints were established on all major entry and exit routes to control mobility and prevent further escalation.
Authorities described the situation as highly sensitive due to the risk of renewed clashes.
Claims of Attacks and Hospital Siege
A spokesperson for the Inspector General of Police in Azad Jammu and Kashmir stated that armed individuals linked to the banned group attempted to disrupt law and order in Rawalakot.
According to the statement, these individuals allegedly opened fire on law enforcement personnel during coordinated attacks on June 7.
The spokesperson further claimed that armed activists surrounded the Combined Military Hospital (CMH) Rawalakot, disrupting medical services and hospital operations.
Officials stated that security forces exercised restraint while responding to the situation to avoid civilian harm.
Security Operation Restores Control of CMH Rawalakot
Authorities launched a targeted operation between the night of June 7 and June 8 to end the reported siege of the hospital.
Security forces cleared the facility while prioritizing the safety of patients, medical staff, and surrounding civilians.
Following the operation, officials confirmed that hospital services have now been fully restored.
The Combined Military Hospital has resumed normal operations after the security clearance.
Background of the Escalating Unrest
The unrest follows a series of violent incidents across Rawalakot and surrounding districts.
At least seven civilians were killed and 23 police officers injured during clashes linked to tensions with JAAC supporters.
Officials also reported the deaths of four police personnel, including a sub-inspector, during earlier incidents tied to ongoing unrest.
Following the violence, authorities arrested 30 individuals as investigations continued into the clashes and attacks on security installations.
Situation Remains Tense Ahead of Muzaffarabad March
As the planned march toward Muzaffarabad approaches, the security situation remains highly volatile.
Law enforcement agencies continue to monitor movement across key routes and maintain heightened alert status.
Authorities have urged calm while reaffirming that public order and safety remain the top priority during the ongoing unrest.
