A Mi-17 military helicopter belonging to the Pakistan Army crashed near Muzaffarabad, the capital of Pakistan-administered Kashmir, during takeoff. It was announced that all personnel on board lost their lives in the accident.
The army's public relations unit reported that the crash was caused by a technical failure. The statement noted that rescue and debris removal teams reached the site promptly.
The helicopter crash occurred amid a period of heightened security measures in the region. A heavy security presence was noted following plans by protest movement members in Muzaffarabad to hold demonstrations.
Authorities in Pakistan-administered Kashmir deployed federal paramilitary forces to the area after the protests and issued a strict travel advisory for the region.
While details on the number of casualties have not been disclosed, military officials announced the formation of an investigation board to determine the exact cause of the helicopter crash.
Meanwhile, tensions in the region have escalated further following clashes between police and protesters in Rawalakot, the center of Poonch district, resulting in at least 11 deaths. The helicopter accident occurred amid this intense security and protest environment.