AJK situation: Rangers soldier martyred, another injured in Rawalakot attack

The officials say armed assailants first fired on a civilian area near the Matial Maira Bus Terminal during the morning, allegedly in an attempt to create panic and incite public unrest

RAWALAKOT: (UrduPoint/UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News-July14th, 2026) One Rangers soldier was killed and another injured after armed men allegedly linked to the banned Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) attacked security forces and opened fire in Rawalakot on Tuesday, according to security officials.

The officials said the armed assailants first fired on a civilian area near the Matial Maira Bus Terminal during the morning, allegedly in an attempt to create panic and incite public unrest.

Following the incident, police rushed to the area to restore law and order. Security officials said the attackers then opened fire on police personnel with automatic weapons. Rangers troops, deployed to assist the police, also responded to the situation.

According to security sources, the attackers used sophisticated firearms as well as improvised explosive devices (IEDs) during the assault. One Rangers soldier was martyred, while another sustained injuries during the exchange of fire.

Security officials described the attack as a serious challenge to law enforcement and public safety, saying it reflected an escalation in violence by armed elements. They maintained that the use of automatic weapons and explosive devices posed a significant threat to civilians and security personnel alike.

Analysts cited by security officials said the incident underscored the need for decisive action against armed groups involved in attacks on state institutions.

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They stressed that maintaining law and order and protecting public safety remained essential responsibilities of the state.

The attack came amid heightened tensions in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), where authorities have intensified action against individuals allegedly linked to the banned JAAC.

A day earlier, the AJK education Department suspended 20 serving and retired employees from the districts of Rawalakot and Sudhnoti for allegedly participating in a JAAC protest sit-in.

According to official sources, disciplinary proceedings have been initiated against the suspended employees, and an inquiry officer has been appointed to investigate the allegations.

The suspended individuals include 15 teachers—12 serving and three retired—as well as three peons, one laboratory assistant, and one clerk.

The officials said the latest action follows the preparation of a list containing nearly 100 serving and retired government employees who are alleged to have participated in or facilitated JAAC protest activities. The list has been forwarded to the relevant authorities for further legal and disciplinary action as investigations continue.