A former prime minister of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), Sardar Tanveer Ilyas, escaped unharmed but lost his personal security guard on Friday when unidentified assailants ambushed his convoy in the Poonch district. The attack, which occurred around 1:30pm in the Tain-Dhalkot area, has heightened political tensions ahead of regional elections. Main Developments Muhammad Asif, a retired commando serving as Ilyas's guard, was fatally shot in the head while reportedly moving to shield the former premier. Officials confirmed Asif died en route to a Rawalpindi hospital, while Ilyas remained physically unharmed throughout the incident. Ilyas released a video message later that day, alleging the attack was carried out by armed members of the banned Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC), a claim that could not be independently verified. The group did not immediately respond to the allegation. Read also: Pakistan PM Vows Chinese Security 'Paramount' Amid $440M Deals According to official sources, Ilyas's staff had informed the Poonch administration on Thursday night of his planned visit to LA-22 (Poonch-V) to attend meetings and offer condolences. The administration advised against the trip due to the law-and-order situation, suggesting he instead visit LA-15 (Bagh-II). An official speaking on condition of anonymity said the administration told Ilyas that if he insisted on the visit, he would do so at his own risk. His staff later informed the police control room that road closures were their responsibility and asked only to convey that Ilyas would proceed. Background Tain-Dhalkot falls within LA-22, Ilyas's native constituency. In the 2016 elections, his uncle Sardar Saghir Chughtai won the seat on a Muslim Conference ticket. Chughtai later joined the PTI but died in a road accident days before the 2021 elections. Following Chughtai's death, his widow Shahida Saghir won the seat but rarely participated in legislative proceedings. Her son Ahmed Saghir was later appointed an adviser to the AJK government with ministerial status. Last year, Ahmed Saghir joined the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) alongside Ilyas, who subsequently left the PPP after being denied tickets for three constituencies: LA-22, LA-15 (Bagh-II), and LA-25 (Neelum-I). Ilyas now leads the Istehkam-i-Pakistan Party (IPP) in the region and is contesting the upcoming regional elections from all three constituencies on the IPP ticket, facing Ahmed Saghir in LA-22. Why It Matters The attack underscores the volatile security environment in AJK ahead of elections, where political rivalry and armed groups intersect. Ilyas's allegation that the assailants are pursuing India's intelligence agency RAW's agenda, while unverified, risks inflaming cross-border tensions and polarizing local politics. The killing of a security guard despite prior administration warnings highlights the challenges of ensuring safety for political figures in the region. Ilyas's demand for a decisive operation against alleged terrorists, including potential army involvement, signals potential escalation in state response. What's Next Sources close to Ilyas said he has announced compensation and a residential plot for the slain guard's family. The former premier urged authorities to deal with those responsible with an iron hand, calling for a decisive operation if needed. No group has claimed responsibility, and the JAAC has not responded to Ilyas's allegation. The incident raises questions about security protocols for political candidates and whether the election campaign will proceed without further violence.