Counter Intelligence Kashmir Foils Online Radicalization Plot; Saves Two Youths from Terrorist Recruitment

Srinagar, Oct 27: The Counter Intelligence Kashmir (CIK) has thwarted an online recruitment attempt by a Pakistan-based terror handler, rescuing two Kashmiri teenagers from being drawn into extremist networks.

Officials said the operation stemmed from sustained cyber surveillance and technical monitoring of multiple social media platforms being used to glorify terrorism and propagate separatist ideologies.

During the investigation, CIK identified two radical handles  ‘faithful_warrior57’ and ‘Gurkboru.08’ that were circulating audio-visual content of known militants and promoting extremist narratives to attract impressionable youth.

Subsequent forensic analysis led to the tracing of two local teenagers operating these accounts. “Both were found to be minors and had come under the influence of a Pakistan-based handler using the alias ‘Saqib’, later identified as Ahmad Salar,” an official source said. Salar is linked to The Resistance Front (TRF) and was running an elaborate digital indoctrination campaign from across the border.

Investigations revealed that the handler exploited encrypted messaging apps and VPNs to maintain covert communication, providing ideological material and instructions aimed at recruitment.

Acting swiftly, CIK teams intervened, detained the two teenagers for counselling, and dismantled the digital network before it could cause further damage. “Our timely action prevented their full induction into the terror ecosystem,” the official added.

In a compassionate move, CIK organised counselling sessions for the minors along with their families, community elders, and religious scholars, emphasising the dangers of online radicalisation and the importance of digital awareness.

Officials said the initiative reflects CIK’s twin approach  operational precision combined with social outreach  to combat the evolving challenge of online extremism in Jammu and Kashmir.

Appealing for collective vigilance, CIK urged parents, teachers, and clerics to monitor digital activities of young people and promptly report any suspicious content promoting radical ideologies.