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Military Helicopter Crashes Near Muzaffarabad All On Board Killed Says ISPR

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MUZAFFARABAD, Pakistan-administered Kashmir — A Pakistan Army Aviation MI-17 helicopter crashed near Muzaffarabad on Wednesday after reportedly suffering a technical malfunction during takeoff, killing all personnel on board, according to a statement issued by the military’s media wing.

The military statement said the helicopter went down shortly after takeoff due to a technical fault. While confirming that no one on board survived the crash, authorities did not immediately disclose the number of personnel who were killed.

Rescue and emergency teams were dispatched to the crash site shortly after the incident and initiated recovery operations, the statement added.

The military also announced the formation of a Board of Inquiry to determine the exact circumstances and technical causes behind the crash. Investigators are expected to examine flight records, maintenance history, and other relevant evidence as part of the inquiry.

In its statement, the military said senior officials, including the Chief of Army Staff, the Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee, and members of the armed forces, expressed grief over the loss of life and extended condolences to the families of those killed.

Separately, Muzaffarabad Deputy Commissioner Munir Ahmed confirmed to local media that a helicopter crash had occurred in the district. However, he said authorities were still assessing the situation and that additional details were not immediately available.

The incident has drawn widespread attention across Pakistan-administered Kashmir, where residents and officials are awaiting further information regarding the identities of those killed and the findings of the forthcoming investigation.

The Azadi Times will continue to monitor developments and update this report as more verified information becomes available.

Claims of Atif Maqbool Arrest Denied as Supporters Reject False Reports

Statement says activist remains free and continues involvement in public rights movement

MUZAFFARABAD, Pakistan-administered Kashmir — Claims circulating on social media and through unofficial channels regarding the alleged arrest of public rights activist Atif Maqbool have been strongly denied by his supporters, who describe the reports as “baseless” and “misleading.”

In a statement issued on Tuesday, individuals associated with Maqbool said that attempts were being made to create confusion among the public through what they called false propaganda and unverified information.

“The reports claiming that Atif Maqbool has been arrested are entirely unfounded,” the statement said. “Atif Maqbool remains free and continues to play an active role in the ongoing struggle for public rights.”

The statement further urged residents to exercise caution when sharing information online and to avoid relying on unverified reports circulating on social media platforms.

Supporters appealed to the public to seek information from official and credible sources, warning that misinformation can contribute to uncertainty and public anxiety during periods of heightened political activity.

The Azadi Times has not independently verified the claims regarding Maqbool’s whereabouts. No official statement from authorities regarding any alleged arrest was immediately available at the time of publication.

The clarification comes amid an atmosphere of intense political mobilisation and widespread public interest in developments unfolding across Pakistan-administered Kashmir.

Mirwaiz Umar Farooq Expresses Concern Over Developments in Azad Kashmir

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Kashmiri religious and political leader urges dialogue, restraint, and peaceful resolution amid rising tensions

SRINAGAR — Kashmiri religious and political leader Mirwaiz Umar Farooq has expressed deep concern over recent developments in Azad Kashmir, calling for restraint, dialogue, and a peaceful approach to addressing public grievances.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, Mirwaiz said reports emerging from across the Line of Control had caused him “serious concern,” particularly allegations that civilians and police personnel had lost their lives during ongoing unrest and protests.

“The reports coming from across the LoC are deeply worrying. The loss of civilian lives and police personnel during protests is extremely unfortunate,” Mirwaiz said, according to the statement.

He emphasized that governments should not rely on force as a primary response to public grievances and demands. Instead, he argued, authorities should engage with citizens through dialogue and democratic processes.

“When people take to the streets to express their concerns and problems, it is a signal that they want their voices to be heard,” he said. “Those in power have a responsibility to listen, engage with the public, and seek peaceful solutions rather than allowing situations to escalate into violence, arbitrary arrests, and loss of life.”

Mirwaiz further expressed hope that decision-makers would act with wisdom and restraint, addressing public concerns through meaningful engagement and avoiding further escalation.

The statement comes amid heightened political tensions and public mobilization across parts of Azad Kashmir, where demonstrations and shutdowns have drawn significant public attention in recent days.

The Azadi Times could not independently verify casualty figures referenced in the statement. Authorities have yet to provide comprehensive public information regarding several reported incidents linked to the ongoing unrest.

Long March Convoys from Mirpur Division Reach Outskirts of Rawalakot

Organisers say final decision on entering the city will be taken after assessing the ground situation

RAWALAKOT, Pakistan-administered Kashmir — 10 June 2026 (5:00 PM) — Convoys participating in the ongoing long march from various parts of Mirpur Division have reached areas near Rawalakot’s entry points, according to organisers and local sources.

The convoys have not yet entered the city, with organisers indicating that a final decision regarding entry will be made after evaluating the evolving situation on the ground.

Sources associated with the march said that different groups of participants are currently positioned at separate locations surrounding Rawalakot. Some convoys are reportedly stationed near Matialmira, while others have gathered in the vicinity of Dreak and Chak.

The latest developments come amid heightened political activity and public mobilisation across Pakistan-administered Kashmir, where demonstrations, shutdowns, and public gatherings have continued to attract significant attention in recent days.

Observers note that Rawalakot has emerged as a key focal point of the ongoing movement, with residents closely monitoring developments as large numbers of participants converge on the city from multiple districts.

At the time of publication, there were no confirmed reports of the convoys entering the city limits. Organisers have maintained that further announcements will be made based on the prevailing circumstances and consultations with participants on the ground.

The Azadi Times is monitoring the situation and will continue to provide verified updates as developments unfold.

Helicopter Crash Reported in Muzaffarabad Rescue Teams Rush to Scene

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Authorities yet to confirm casualties as investigation begins into incident near Muzaffarabad

MUZAFFARABAD, Pakistan-administered Kashmir — A helicopter crash was reported in Muzaffarabad on Monday, triggering an emergency response and drawing widespread public attention across the region.

According to preliminary reports and eyewitness accounts, the aircraft went down in or near the outskirts of Muzaffarabad, prompting rescue teams, local authorities, and emergency personnel to rush to the scene.

Videos and images circulating on social media showed smoke rising from the crash site as responders worked to secure the area. However, the authenticity of all footage could not be independently verified by The Azadi Times at the time of publication.

Officials have not yet released a comprehensive statement regarding the number of people on board, potential casualties, or the cause of the crash. Aviation and emergency authorities are expected to begin a formal investigation once the site has been secured.

Residents in nearby areas reported hearing a loud noise shortly before emergency vehicles were seen moving toward the location. The incident has sparked concern across Muzaffarabad, with many awaiting official confirmation and further details.

As of publication, no verified information was available regarding the identity of passengers or crew members.

The Azadi Times is continuing to monitor the situation and will update this report as additional verified information becomes available.

One Reportedly Killed, Several Injured as Tensions Escalate in Kotli

Conflicting reports emerge from Kotli as unrest intensifies; official confirmation still awaited

KOTLI, Pakistan-administered Kashmir — At least one person was reportedly killed and several others injured in Kotli on Monday as tensions escalated amid ongoing public mobilization and unrest across parts of Pakistan-administered Kashmir.

Local sources told The Azadi Times that clashes and disturbances were reported in multiple areas of the district, leading to casualties and injuries. Eyewitnesses described scenes of panic as people rushed to seek safety while the situation continued to unfold.

According to preliminary reports, several injured individuals were transported to nearby healthcare facilities for treatment. However, the exact number of casualties and the circumstances surrounding the reported death could not be independently verified at the time of publication.

Residents reported a heightened security presence across parts of Kotli, while movement in some areas remained restricted. Businesses and transport services were also affected as uncertainty gripped the district.

The reported incident comes amid a wider wave of demonstrations, shutdowns, and political activity across Pakistan-administered Kashmir, where tensions have remained elevated in recent days. Communication challenges and limited access to official information have made independent verification difficult.

As of publication, authorities had not issued a formal statement confirming the reported fatality or providing details about those injured.

The Azadi Times is continuing to gather information from multiple independent sources. This is a developing story and will be updated as further verified details become available.

Reports of Shoukat Nawaz Mir Arrest Appear Unsubstantiated Amid Widespread Shutdown Across Pakistan-Administered Kashmir

Sources close to JKJAAC leader deny arrest claims as region observes strike and internet disruptions continue

MUZAFFARABAD, Pakistan-administered Kashmir — Reports circulating in sections of Pakistani media regarding the alleged arrest of Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JKJAAC) leader Shoukat Nawaz Mir could not be independently verified on Monday, as sources close to the activist denied claims that he had been taken into custody.

The reports emerged as Pakistan-administered Kashmir witnessed a region-wide shutdown following a strike call for June 9. Businesses remained closed across major towns and cities, while internet services continued to face disruptions in several areas, according to local residents and independent reports.

Over the past week, multiple Pakistani television channels and media outlets have reported that Shoukat Nawaz Mir, a core member of the JKJAAC and a prominent trader leader based in Muzaffarabad, had been arrested. However, The Azadi Times has been unable to independently verify those claims.

According to information gathered by The Azadi Times, security forces have reportedly conducted operations and searches in an effort to locate Mir in recent weeks. Despite these reported efforts, no official documentation, court record, or verified statement confirming his arrest has been made publicly available.

A person described as being close to Mir, who requested anonymity due to security concerns, told The Azadi Times that the activist had not been arrested and remained active. The source further alleged that false reports were being circulated, contributing to confusion and concern among the public.

Meanwhile, statements attributed to Mir have continued to appear on social media platforms associated with him, including the Facebook page commonly known as “Tajran Da Veer.” While these posts suggest ongoing activity, The Azadi Times has not independently verified his current location.

Attempts by The Azadi Times to directly contact Shoukat Nawaz Mir for comment were unsuccessful at the time of publication.

The conflicting claims emerge against the backdrop of heightened political tensions, public mobilization, and ongoing demonstrations across Pakistan-administered Kashmir. Independent verification remains challenging due to communication disruptions and limited official information.

As of publication, authorities had not issued a public statement addressing the reports of Mir’s alleged arrest or the claims denying them.

The Azadi Times remains committed to independent journalism and will continue to seek verification from multiple sources as the situation develops.

Roads Blocked at Multiple Locations as Barriers Emerge Along Kotli–Mirpur Route

 

Earthen obstacles reportedly placed on key highways amid heightened tensions and public mobilization

KOTLI, Azad Kashmir — Reports from various parts of Azad Kashmir indicate that sections of the main Kotli–Mirpur highway, including areas around Gulpur, Maholi and Barali, have been obstructed with earthen barriers and other roadblocks.

According to local sources, mounds of soil were placed at several points along the route, restricting the movement of vehicles and causing disruptions to normal traffic flow. Residents reported delays for travelers attempting to move between different districts as authorities and local communities monitored the evolving situation.

Witnesses said that additional checkpoints and temporary barriers were also observed at various locations, although the exact purpose and duration of the restrictions remain unclear. The developments come amid increased political activity and public mobilization across several districts of Azad Kashmir.

Transport operators and commuters have expressed concerns over travel disruptions, while local residents continue to follow developments closely. Authorities have yet to issue a detailed statement regarding the reported roadblocks and their potential impact on movement across the region.

The situation remains fluid, and further information is expected as officials and local stakeholders respond to the developments.

Azadi Times is monitoring the situation and will provide updates as more verified information becomes available.

Convoys from Mirpur Division, Sudhnoti and Poonch Move Towards Rawalakot Amid Growing Mobilization

RAWALAKOT, Azad Kashmir — Convoys from various parts of Mirpur Division, as well as the districts of Sudhnoti and Poonch, are reportedly moving towards Rawalakot amid increasing public mobilization and political activity across the region.

According to local sources, groups of participants have begun travelling from different towns and villages, with many expected to join gatherings and demonstrations taking place in and around Rawalakot. Videos and eyewitness accounts circulating on social media suggest a significant movement of people along major routes leading to the city.

Observers describe the mobilization as one of the largest seen in recent months, reflecting the growing public interest in ongoing developments across Azad Kashmir. Residents along key highways have reported increased traffic volumes as convoys continue their journey toward Rawalakot.

While organizers have described the movement as peaceful, local authorities are closely monitoring the situation. Security arrangements have reportedly been enhanced in several locations to manage traffic and ensure public safety.

The latest developments come amid heightened political engagement and public debate across Azad Kashmir, with Rawalakot emerging as a focal point for ongoing activities.

At the time of publication, officials had not released a detailed statement regarding the scale of participation or any administrative measures being taken in response to the gatherings.

Azadi Times will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as further information becomes available.

Complete Shutdown Observed in Muzaffarabad Busiest Commercial Market Amid Strike Call

Businesses remain closed across key commercial areas as traders respond to shutdown call

MUZAFFARABAD, Azad Kashmir — A complete shutter-down strike was observed in one of Muzaffarabad’s busiest commercial markets on Monday, with shops and business centers remaining closed in response to a strike call.

Images and reports from the city showed deserted streets and shuttered businesses in areas that are typically crowded with shoppers and commercial activity. The strike significantly disrupted routine economic activity, highlighting the scale of participation among traders and business owners.

Local sources said that the shutdown affected a wide range of businesses, including retail outlets, wholesale markets, and service providers. Traffic movement in several commercial zones was also noticeably reduced as residents adjusted to the ongoing strike.

The reasons behind the strike and the demands of organizers have drawn considerable public attention, with citizens, traders, and political observers closely monitoring developments. Authorities have yet to release a comprehensive statement regarding the economic impact of the shutdown.

Muzaffarabad, the administrative capital of Azad Kashmir, serves as a major commercial hub for the region. Any prolonged disruption to business activity is likely to have wider implications for local trade and daily life.

Further updates are expected as the situation develops.

Photo Caption: Closed shops line a major commercial market in Muzaffarabad during a complete shutter-down strike.