"Press ReleaseDate: 10 September 2026Cowardly Attack by Armed Members of the Banned Awami Action Committee: Rangers Personnel Martyred in Sniper Firing in KotliThe armed members of the banned Awami Action Committee have made it their practice to disrupt the peaceful environment of Azad Jammu and Kashmir and to spread fear across the state. Targeting law enforcement agencies at different locations and resorting to indiscriminate firing is clear proof that this is not a peaceful protest. These are organized, trained, and armed militants whose aim is to challenge the writ of the state and sabotage peace and order.According to the spokesperson for Azad Jammu and Kashmir Police, on 09 September 2026 in District Kotli, snipers from the armed mob of the banned Awami Action Committee opened fire targeting personnel of law enforcement agencies. As a result, Sepoy Asif Hussain of Pakistan Rangers was critically injured. He was immediately shifted to hospital for treatment, but succumbed to his injuries during treatment and embraced martyrdom.Immediately after the incident, law enforcement agencies launched operations in the area to trace and arrest the miscreants involved in this cowardly attack.Attacks on law enforcement agencies, firing, and targeting state personnel cannot be categorized as protest, dissent, or political activity in any way. This is open lawlessness, a challenge to state authority, and an organized violent attempt to destroy peace and order. Armed elements who take up weapons to target law enforcement officials and civilians deserve neither leniency nor sympathy.The state administration reaffirms its resolve that for the supremacy of the state, public peace, and protection of citizens, the strictest action under the law will be taken without discrimination against all such terrorist and violent elements.SpokespersonAzad Jammu and Kashmir Police"
On September 9, 2026, a tragic incident unfolded in District Kotli, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, when armed members of the banned Awami Action Committee launched a sniper attack against law enforcement agencies. This attack resulted in the critical injury of Sepoy Asif Hussain of the Pakistan Rangers, who later succumbed to his injuries, underscoring the volatility of the region.
The actions of the Awami Action Committee are indicative of a troubling trend toward organized violence aimed at undermining state authority. Despite being designated as a banned organization, their continued operations illustrate a significant challenge to both peace and governance in Azad Jammu and Kashmir. This incident marks not just an assault on law enforcement but a broader attempt to instill fear within communities. It serves as a grim reminder that violence cannot be equated with dissent or protest; rather, it should be met with swift and decisive action by authorities.
Globally, there is a growing recognition of the challenges faced by regions experiencing conflict due to organized militant activities. While international observers often call for restraint and dialogue, the repeated violent disruptions by such groups demand a robust response from the state. Many nations support Pakistans right to defend itself against organized threats that seek to destabilize its peace. A continued commitment to upholding law and order is vital for securing international support and fostering diplomatic relations.
The state administration of Azad Jammu and Kashmir has vowed to take strict measures against all forms of violence, reaffirming a commitment to citizen safety and the rule of law. Addressing the root causes of militancy through socio-economic development, community engagement, and political inclusivity will be critical. The path ahead must involve not only law enforcement actions but also a focus on creating a resilient society that embraces dialogue over division. As Pakistan moves forward, the resilience of its institutions will play a crucial role in overcoming these challenges.
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