ISLAMABAD: The investigations have brought to light disturbing tactics used by terrorist organizations to exploit young people and draw them into violent activities under the guise of education and ideological influence.
In this regard, the statements from families of former militants have revealed how vulnerable youth were manipulated and transported to remote mountainous areas that served as hideouts for extremist elements.
In this sense, terrorist groups deliberately targeted young minds, presenting themselves as facilitators of education, training, or better opportunities.
These promises allegedly turned into a pathway toward radicalization and armed militancy. One such case involves Ghulam Jan, whose brother stated that he had left home with the intention of traveling to Karachi for educational purposes.
However, the family soon lost contact with him. Despite repeated efforts to locate him, no information was found for an extended period. Eventually, the family learned that Ghulam Jan had been killed and identified as an active terrorist.
Meanwhile, another family member, the father of Asif, also shared his experience. He acknowledged that his son abandoned his studies and later became involved with a terrorist organization.
The father said he made numerous appeals to persuade his son to return home, but all efforts failed.
Furthermore, the situation deteriorated to such an extent that his son allegedly threatened him for attempting to prevent his involvement in extremist activities.
The father said this indicated a tragic turning point, demonstrating how radicalization can sever family bonds and replace them with hostility and violence.
These testimonies collectively point to a broader pattern in which terrorist organizations exploit social, economic, and educational vulnerabilities to recruit young individuals.
Moreover, the government representatives reasserted that the state’s position on terrorism remains firm and unambiguous. The official narrative focuses on that involvement in terrorism leads only to loss of life, legal consequences, and long-term suffering for families.
The revelations serve as a cautionary reminder for communities to remain vigilant and for parents, educators, and institutions to work together to protect youth from falling prey to extremist manipulation.
