A Rangers soldier was martyred and three police officers were injured after violent clashes erupted in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) following the successful completion of the region's elections, officials said.

According to police, supporters of the banned Joint Awami Action Committee attempted to march towards Rawalakot at around 10pm. Security forces moved to stop the procession, leading to a confrontation on the outskirts of the city.

Officials said members of the banned group attacked a security checkpoint during the unrest. Rangers soldier Ali Raza was killed in the attack, while three police personnel sustained injuries.

Authorities also reported that attackers set fire to one Rangers vehicle and one police vehicle during the violence, causing significant damage. Security forces later brought the situation under control and launched an operation to identify and arrest those involved.

The clashes came shortly after the peaceful completion of the AJK elections, which saw voters cast their ballots across the region under heightened security arrangements. Officials had earlier described the polling process as largely peaceful.

No official statement has yet been issued regarding the total number of arrests or whether additional security measures will be imposed in the affected areas.

The latest violence has raised fresh concerns over law and order in the region, with authorities urging citizens to remain calm and avoid spreading unverified information. Investigations into the attack are ongoing, and officials say those responsible will be brought to justice in accordance with the law.