District Police Poonch

18/09/2026

Press Release
DISTRICT POLICE POONCH

District Police Poonch Conducts Cleanliness Drive at Parade Ground Park Under Swachh Bharat Abhiyan

Poonch, September 18, 2026:
As part of its ongoing commitment towards cleanliness, environmental protection and community welfare, District Police Poonch today organized a cleanliness drive at Parade Ground Park, Poonch, under the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan. The drive was conducted under the supervision of Sh. Shafkat Hussain Bhat, JKPS, SSP Poonch, with the active participation of police officers and jawans.

Around 100 police personnel participated in the cleanliness drive and carried out extensive cleaning of the park premises. The participants collected waste material and other discarded items from different areas of the park and ensured that the surroundings were made clean and hygienic.

Speaking on the occasion, SSP Poonch Sh. Shafkat Hussain Bhat emphasized that cleanliness is not merely a one-day activity but a collective responsibility and should become a regular habit among citizens. He appealed to the people of Poonch to make proper use of dustbins and ensure that waste material, used items and other garbage are disposed of at designated places instead of being thrown in public spaces.

The SSP further highlighted the importance of creating awareness among the younger generation regarding the harmful effects of an unhygienic and unhealthy lifestyle. He stated that unattended and improperly disposed waste can become a breeding ground for disease-causing organisms, pose serious health risks and adversely affect the environment.

He stressed that Parade Ground Park holds a special place in the heart of Poonch town, being centrally located and frequented by people from all sections of society who visit the park for recreation, exercise, relaxation and spending quality time with their families. Therefore, maintaining the cleanliness and hygiene of the park is particularly important for the health and well-being of the community.

SSP Poonch urged citizens, especially the youth, to actively contribute towards keeping public places clean and to discourage littering. He called upon the public to adopt the principle of “Clean Surroundings, Healthy Society” and work collectively towards making Poonch a cleaner, healthier and more environment-friendly town.

He also emphasized that police-public partnership extends beyond traditional policing, with the police committed to contributing towards initiatives that promote public welfare, civic responsibility and a healthy environment.

Among those who participated in the cleanliness drive were Sh. Shashi Kant Raina, DySP DAR Poonch; Sh. Azhar Amin, DySP Operations Poonch; and Sh. Aijaz Wani, SHO Poonch City, along with other officers and ranks of District Police Poonch.

The initiative reflects the commitment of District Police Poonch towards promoting cleanliness, civic sense, environmental responsibility and community participation, while encouraging citizens to join hands with the police in maintaining clean and healthy public spaces across the district.

District Police Poonch appeals to all citizens to avoid littering, use designated dustbins and make cleanliness a daily habit.

17/09/2026

DISTRICT POLICE POONCH
PRESS RELEASE

PCPG Meeting Held at Bhatadurian to Strengthen Security/Intelligence Grid and Police-Public Coordination

Dated: 17/09/2026

On the directions of senior officers, a Police Community Partnership Group (PCPG) meeting was held yesterday at Bhatadurian by Addl. SP Poonch, Dr. Ajay Sharma (JKPS), in the presence of SDPO Mendhar Sh. Touseef Ahmed, SHO Gursai Insp. Manpreet Singh and I/C Police Post Kalar ASI Abdul Hamid, with the primary objective of strengthening the security and intelligence grid through enhanced Police-public coordination and timely information sharing.

The meeting was attended by prominent citizens and community representatives, including Sh. Jabbar Chandyal, Ex-Sarpanch; Sh. Arim Khan, Social Worker; Sh. Hafiz Tahir Jameel; Sh. Mushtaq Ahmad; Sh. Azaz Ahmad; Sh. Ajaz Akbar, resident of Morha, besides other local residents.

While addressing the gathering, Addl. SP Poonch thanked the local residents for their participation and valuable feedback. Keeping in view the past security incidents in Bhatadurian and adjoining areas, he emphasised the critical role of the local population in strengthening the security mechanism. The public was sensitised to remain vigilant and immediately share credible information regarding suspicious persons, movements, unknown individuals, unusual activities, attempts to provide shelter or logistical support, and any other security-related concerns with the Police/Security Forces.

The Addl. SP stressed that timely and accurate information from the community can play a vital role in preventing security incidents and enabling prompt preventive and legal action. He urged community representatives, Village Defence Guards and responsible citizens to maintain close contact with the Police. Contact numbers of concerned Police officers, including PCR, were shared with the public to facilitate immediate reporting and sharing of any security-related or suspicious information.

The emerging challenge of narco-terrorism and drug trafficking was also discussed. The public was urged to remain vigilant regarding suspicious movement on vulnerable/link roads and to promptly report drug-related activities. Parents and community representatives were also advised to remain attentive towards drug abuse among youth and educate children about its harmful consequences.

The public was further sensitised about cyber and financial frauds and advised not to share OTPs, PINs, passwords or banking credentials with anyone. They were advised to immediately report financial/cyber fraud through 1930 and inform the Police.

Various public grievances relating to roads, NH construction, BRO works, land acquisition, compensation, damaged passages and other infrastructure-related issues were also discussed. Issues concerning VDG training, strength and replacement/upgradation of weapons were taken on record and assured to be taken up with the concerned higher authorities as per applicable policy and requirements.

Directions were also issued to SHO Gursai and I/C Police Post Kalar to intensify naka checking, strengthen surveillance of vulnerable routes and ensure adequate police presence during school opening and closing hours, besides taking action against traffic violations as per law.

Addl. SP Poonch reiterated that the PCPG mechanism would continue to serve as an effective platform for strengthening Police-public partnership, intelligence sharing and community-based security. He called upon the residents to remain vigilant, maintain close coordination with the Police and promptly share credible information to collectively safeguard peace, security and public safety in the area.

14/09/2026

PRESS RELEASE

SSP Poonch Chairs PCPG Meeting at Isawali Loran, Emphasises Community Partnership and Public Safety

Poonch: A Police Community Partnership Group (PCPG) meeting was held today at Isawali, Loran, under the chairmanship of SSP Poonch Sh. Shafqat Hussain, JKPS, with the objective of further strengthening Police-Public coordination and enhancing community participation in maintaining peace, security and public order across the area.

The meeting was attended by DySP Headquarters Poonch Sh. Neeraj Sharma, DySP Operations Poonch Sh. Azhar Amim and SHO Loran, along with prominent citizens, local residents and community representatives of the area. The interaction provided an opportunity for the Police to engage directly with the public and understand issues and concerns pertaining to the local population.

During the meeting, SSP Poonch stressed upon the importance of sustained cooperation between the Police and the public in addressing security-related concerns, preventing crime and maintaining a peaceful and harmonious environment. He urged the participants to remain vigilant and extend their cooperation to the Police in identifying and reporting any suspicious activities, drug-related activities, criminal elements and other issues that may affect public safety.

SSP Poonch also highlighted the importance of community participation in tackling social challenges, particularly drug abuse, youth-related issues and the spread of rumours and misinformation. He assured the participants that the genuine concerns raised by the public would be examined on priority and that District Police Poonch remains committed to providing accessible, responsive and people-friendly policing.

The Police officers present also interacted with the locals and assured them of continued support and prompt response to issues concerning their safety and security. The participants appreciated the efforts of District Police Poonch towards strengthening grassroots-level engagement and expressed their willingness to continue extending cooperation to the Police in maintaining peace and public order in the area.

11/09/2026

10/09/2026

PRESS RELEASE

SSP Poonch Holds Thana Diwas at Nadyali Surankote to Address Public Grievances

Poonch, September 10, 2026

In continuation of the District Police Poonch's efforts to strengthen Police-Public coordination and ensure effective redressal of public grievances, SSP Poonch Sh. Shafqat Bhat (JKPS) today held a Thana Diwas at Nadyali, Surankote.

The programme was attended by SDPO Surankote, SHO Police Station Surankote, besides a large number of local residents, community representatives and prominent citizens of the area.

During the interaction, the SSP gave a patient hearing to the issues and concerns raised by the public. Matters pertaining to local security, law and order, drug abuse, prevention of bovine smuggling, illegal mining, cyber frauds, public safety and other issues affecting the people of the Surankote area were discussed in detail.

The SSP assured the participants that all genuine grievances brought to the notice of the Police would be examined on priority and necessary action would be taken strictly in accordance with law. He directed the officers present to maintain close coordination with the public and ensure prompt response to issues falling within the jurisdiction of Police.

SSP Poonch emphasized the importance of community participation in maintaining peace and security, particularly in areas having strategic and border-related significance. He urged the public to remain vigilant and immediately share information regarding suspicious activities, drug peddling, bovine smuggling, illegal activities and other matters that may affect the safety and security of the area.

The Police officers present also apprised the public about various initiatives being undertaken by District Police Poonch and assured them of continued cooperation and timely action on their legitimate concerns.

The Thana Diwas provided a valuable platform for direct interaction between the Police and the local community and reaffirmed the commitment of District Police Poonch towards responsive, accessible and community-oriented policing.

10/09/2026

PRESS RELEASE
DISTRICT POLICE POONCH

Major Traffic Enforcement Drive Across District Poonch; Over 130 Vehicles Seized/Challaned

Poonch, September 10, 2026

District Police Poonch conducted a major traffic enforcement drive across the Poonch, Mendhar and Surankote Sub-Divisions, focusing on ensuring strict compliance with traffic rules and promoting road safety among commuters.

The drive was carried out under the supervision of senior police officers, with dedicated police teams deployed at various locations across the three sub-divisions. During the extensive checking, police personnel conducted thorough inspections of vehicles and took action against motorists found violating traffic regulations.

More than 130 vehicles were seized/challaned for various traffic violations, including dangerous and negligent driving, overloading, driving without valid documents, improper parking, use of vehicles in violation of prescribed norms and other offences under the Motor Vehicles Act.

The enforcement drive was aimed not merely at penalising violators but at preventing road accidents, ensuring disciplined movement of traffic and safeguarding the lives of commuters and pedestrians. Police personnel also sensitised drivers regarding adherence to speed limits, use of seat belts and helmets, carrying valid documents and avoiding dangerous driving practices.

District Police Poonch has reiterated that traffic enforcement will continue across the district, particularly against violations that endanger the lives of road users. The public has been urged to cooperate with the police and strictly follow traffic rules.

District Police Poonch appeals to all motorists to drive responsibly, follow traffic regulations and make road safety a collective responsibility.

09/09/2026

PRESS RELEASE
DISTRICT POLICE POONCH

Major Success Against Bovine Smuggling in Mendhar; 40 Bovines Rescued, 5 Vehicles Seized

Poonch, September 9, 2026

Continuing its sustained drive against bovine smuggling and illegal transportation of animals, District Police Poonch has achieved a significant success in Mendhar.

Acting on specific inputs and during intensified checking and patrolling, police teams of Police Station Mendhar conducted a series of operations to curb the illegal transportation of bovines. During these operations, five vehicles allegedly being used for the transportation of bovines were intercepted and seized.

A total of around 40 bovine animals were rescued from the seized vehicles and taken into safe custody as per established legal procedures.

In connection with these operations, five separate cases have been registered under relevant provisions of law. Further investigation is underway to establish the complete modus operandi and identify and trace all persons involved in the illegal transportation and smuggling of bovines.

District Police Poonch reiterates its commitment to curbing bovine smuggling and other unlawful activities. Strict legal action shall continue to be taken against those found involved in such activities, while concerted efforts will remain focused on maintaining peace, security and public order across the district.

08/09/2026

PRESS RELEASE

PCPG Meeting Held at Zero Line, Balakote to Strengthen Police-Public Coordination

A Police Community Partnership Group (PCPG) meeting was held today at Zero Line, Balakote, under the supervision of Addl. SP Poonch, Dr. Ajay Sharma, (JKPS) with the objective of strengthening Police-Public coordination, enhancing community participation in security matters and addressing the genuine grievances of the border population.

During the meeting, local residents, particularly those from border villages, were sensitized about prevailing security challenges and the importance of remaining vigilant against infiltration, terrorist and anti-national activities, narco-trafficking and other criminal activities. They were advised to promptly report any suspicious persons, vehicles, objects or unusual activities to the Police and security agencies. The mobile numbers were also shared.

The threat of narcotics and narco-trafficking was discussed, with residents urged to share credible information regarding drug-related activities. They were also sensitized about cyber frauds, including fake social-media accounts, phishing links, OTP/PIN frauds and fraudulent banking transactions, and advised to exercise caution during online transactions.

Residents raised issues regarding access to border villages, security checks, installation of Smart Fence/AIOS and the recurring menace of wild boars damaging agricultural crops. The concerns were heard patiently and it was assured that genuine issues would be taken up with the concerned authorities for appropriate redressal while keeping security requirements in view.

The meeting concluded on a positive note, with residents assuring full cooperation to the Police and security forces in maintaining peace, security and harmony along the Zero Line and border areas of Balakote. The importance of continued Police-Public coordination, community vigilance and timely information-sharing was reiterated.

07/09/2026

DISTRICT POLICE POONCH
PRESS RELEASE

District Police Poonch Intensifies Action Against Illegal Mining; Eight Tractor Trolleys Seized

Poonch, September 07, 2026

Continuing its sustained campaign against illegal mining, District Police Poonch has further intensified enforcement measures across the district to curb unauthorized extraction and transportation of minerals.

As part of the ongoing drive, police teams of District Police Poonch today seized eight tractor trolleys found involved in illegal mining activities at various locations across the district.

The action was taken during special checking and enforcement operations conducted by police teams to prevent the unlawful extraction and transportation of mining material and ensure strict compliance with the applicable rules and regulations.

The Mining Department has been informed for initiating necessary legal proceedings and further action under the relevant provisions of law and mining regulations.

District Police Poonch remains committed to a zero-tolerance approach towards illegal mining and will continue to take stringent action against violators involved in the unlawful exploitation of natural resources.

The general public is urged to cooperate with the police and report any instances of illegal mining or unauthorized transportation of mining material so that prompt legal action can be taken against the violators.

06/09/2026

DISTRICT POLICE POONCH
PRESS RELEASE

District Police Poonch Steps Up Action Against Illegal Mining; Four Tractor Trolleys Seized

Poonch, September 06, 2026

Continuing its sustained campaign against illegal mining, District Police Poonch has intensified enforcement measures to curb the unauthorized extraction and transportation of minerals across the district.

As part of the ongoing drive, Police Station Poonch today seized four tractor trolleys found involved in illegal mining activities. The action was taken during a special checking and enforcement operation conducted by the police within the jurisdiction of Police Station Poonch.

The seized vehicles were found engaged in the unauthorized extraction and transportation of mining material in violation of the applicable rules and regulations. Acting promptly, the police seized the vehicles to prevent further illegal mining activities.

The Mining Department has been informed for initiating necessary legal proceedings and further action under the relevant provisions of the mining laws and regulations.

District Police Poonch remains committed to a zero-tolerance approach towards illegal mining and will continue to take stringent action against those involved in the unlawful exploitation of natural resources.

The general public is urged to cooperate with the police and report any instances of illegal mining or unauthorized transportation of mining material so that prompt and appropriate legal action can be taken against the violators.