RAJOURI, FEB 19: A 40-year-old man, identified as Javaid Kohli, was rescued after climbing a mobile tower in Thanamandi town of Jammu and Kashmir’s Rajouri district on Wednesday, threatening to end his life, officials said.
The incident began around 9 am when Kohli scaled the tower and went live on social media, alleging harassment by the police. Known locally for his alleged involvement in several criminal activities, including drug peddling, Kohli’s act sparked panic among residents.
Police and civil officials rushed to the scene, attempting to persuade him to descend. Family members, including his children, also appealed to him, but Kohli refused, demanding assurance from senior government or police officials before coming down.
With negotiations failing, authorities enlisted the help of the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), along with fire and emergency services and health department personnel. Using a public address system, officials assured Kohli that his grievances would be heard, leading to his eventual rescue at around 3:15 pm — over six hours after the ordeal began.
Police have initiated further inquiries into Kohli’s allegations.
