Monitoring Desk: For years, independent journalists and security analysts have raised concerns that extremist and militant groups allegedly use mosques and religious networks for recruitment, indoctrination, and operational activities. Allegations have also surfaced regarding the abuse and sexual exploitation of vulnerable children recruited under the banner of so-called jihad.
Fresh claims have now emerged through a video testimony by a 13-year-old boy identified as Akramullah, whose father was reportedly associated with Jihadi organization and was killed. In the video, Akramullah describes his personal experiences and alleges that he was subjected to violence, sexual abuse, and exploitation by members of Fitna al-Khawarij (TTP).
According to the testimony, the teenager recounts incidents from his childhood, describing what he says were severe physical, psychological, and sexual abuse, as well as prolonged mental and physical torture.
Observers note that Akramullah’s account reflects the challenges faced by many children under the control of TTP. Human rights concerns regarding terrorists groups operating in the region have been documented in various reports over the years. Media accounts and security assessments have alleged that civilians, including women and children, have been harmed, coerced, or exploited in Afghanistan and in KP by terrorists. International media organizations and regional observers have also reported allegations of child recruitment, exposure of minors to violence, and the use of children in support roles by TTP and other terrorists and Jihadi groups within Afghanistan and KP.
Akramullah’s testimony further says that vulnerable children and women were sexually exploited and that compromising material was used to blackmail families into supporting or joining terrorist’s groups. Religious scholars frequently emphasize that such acts, stand in direct contradiction to Islamic teachings. Islamic jurisprudence places strong emphasis on protecting life, dignity, honor, and property, while safeguarding children, women, and other vulnerable members of society.
A journalist from Peshawar, speaking on condition of anonymity, said that allegations involving the exploitation of minors by militant groups have appeared in videos, media reports, and security assessments for years. He noted that reports have also discussed claims of child recruitment, the use of children in violent environments, and mistreatment of women.
The journalist further stated that allegations concerning practices such as “Bacha Bazi” and other forms of exploitation have periodically surfaced in relation to various militant groups operating in the region. According to him, such reports often received limited attention due to security, political, and social sensitivities.
Akramullah’s testimony has renewed debate about the methods employed by extremist organizations and the challenges faced by communities affected by militancy. Analysts argue that the allegations underscore the need for greater protection of vulnerable populations, accountability for abuses, and sustained efforts to counter extremist recruitment and exploitation.
The video testimony has drawn public attention because it offers a firsthand account of alleged abuses and has intensified discussion about the impact of militancy on children, families, and communities. Whether the claims are independently verified or not, the allegations have contributed to ongoing scrutiny of extremist groups and their activities in the region.
