MUZAFFARABAD: A security guard was killed and several others were injured after unidentified gunmen opened fire on the convoy of former Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) Prime Minister Tanveer Ilyas in the Tain Dhalkot area, officials confirmed.
According to initial reports, the firing targeted the convoy while it was passing through Tain Dhalkot. The attack triggered panic in the area as security personnel immediately responded and attempted to secure the route. The exact circumstances surrounding the incident are still being investigated, and authorities have not yet disclosed the number of attackers or the type of weapons used.
Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Police Raja Akmal, quoting Tanveer Ilyas’ spokesperson, confirmed that one member of the former prime minister’s security detail was killed in the attack. He added that several other security personnel sustained injuries and were provided medical assistance. The condition of the injured has not yet been officially disclosed.
The former prime minister was reported to be safe following the incident. Authorities have not indicated that he sustained any injuries during the attack.
Following the shooting, law enforcement agencies launched an investigation and began collecting evidence from the scene. Security officials cordoned off the area to facilitate the inquiry and to search for those responsible. Police have also recorded statements from witnesses and members of the convoy as part of the investigation.
DIG Raja Akmal said authorities are treating the incident with utmost seriousness and that legal action will be taken against those involved. He stressed that individuals who take the law into their own hands would be dealt with strictly in accordance with the law.
“Further investigations are underway, and action will be taken against those responsible for this attack,” the senior police officer said.
No organization has claimed responsibility for the shooting, and officials have not yet determined whether the attack was a targeted assassination attempt, an act of political violence, or the result of another motive. Investigators are examining all possible angles before reaching any conclusions.
The incident comes at a time when political activities in Azad Jammu and Kashmir have intensified ahead of the upcoming elections, prompting heightened security concerns across the region. Political leaders from different parties have been actively holding public meetings and rallies, leading authorities to reinforce security arrangements for high-profile personalities.
Attacks on political figures and their convoys are relatively rare in Azad Kashmir, making the latest incident particularly significant. Security analysts say such attacks can raise concerns about the safety of political leaders, public gatherings, and the overall law and order situation during the election period.
Following the attack, additional police and security personnel were reportedly deployed in the surrounding areas to prevent any further untoward incidents. Checkpoints were strengthened, and search operations were initiated in nearby localities as part of efforts to trace the attackers.
Authorities have appealed to the public to remain calm and cooperate with law enforcement agencies by sharing any information that could assist in identifying those responsible. Officials also urged citizens to avoid spreading unverified information or speculation while the investigation is ongoing.
The attack has drawn attention to the need for enhanced security measures for political leaders and public representatives during the election season. Observers believe the outcome of the investigation will be important in determining whether the incident was an isolated act or part of a broader security challenge.
Police have assured that every aspect of the case will be thoroughly examined using available evidence, including forensic analysis and witness testimony. Officials say the investigation will continue until all those involved are identified and brought before the courts.
Further updates are expected as investigators complete the initial stages of the inquiry and release additional information regarding the circumstances of the attack. Until then, authorities have maintained that the investigation remains active and that no conclusions will be drawn prematurely.
About The Author
