Azad Kashmir Police Seal JAAC Central Office as Declared Proscribed Organisation

Azad Kashmir Police have sealed the central office of the banned Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) as part of a continuing crackdown targeting elements allegedly engaged in anti-state activities across the region.

According to officials, the operation was conducted jointly by the administration and law enforcement following credible reports of disruptive activities linked to the organisation. The action was carried out despite the presence of individuals outside the premises, though authorities confirmed that no protest was reported at the scene.

During the raid and search operation, security personnel reportedly recovered a machine gun, a rifle, and a pistol from inside the office — a development that officials and experts say points to more than ordinary civic activism.

Officials stated that the recovery of weapons “under the guise of rights activism indicates an intent to spread unrest” in the region. Authorities emphasised that such targeted operations are essential to maintaining law and order and safeguarding public safety.

Experts echoed this position, asserting that “such actions are necessary to maintain law and order and ensure public safety across the region.”

The sealing of the JAAC headquarters marks a significant escalation in the government’s response to the banned group, which had previously organised large-scale protests over economic and political grievances in Azad Jammu and Kashmir.