Pakistan Terror Group Shifts Funds Online

Download IPFS

Months after India’s Operation Sindoor targeted terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir (PoK), Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) has reportedly shifted its fundraising operations to digital wallets. Intelligence sources indicate the group is using these platforms to rebuild its network and raise funds for new facilities.

On May 7, Indian forces carried out precision strikes under Operation Sindoor, targeting nine alleged terror launch pads in Pakistan and PoK. The operation followed the April 22 Pahalgam attack in India, which killed 26 civilians, and reportedly resulted in the deaths of over 100 militants.

Following these strikes, media reports suggest that JeM has begun funneling donations into digital wallets rather than traditional bank accounts. These wallets are reportedly linked to associates or relatives of JeM leader Masood Azhar. Intelligence agencies suggest that at least five such wallets have direct ties to the group, allowing funds to move without triggering global banking oversight.

The group’s current plan reportedly includes raising approximately PKR 3.9 billion to establish 313 new centres, or “Markaz,” across Pakistan. This model follows patterns previously used by other regional terror organizations. Sources indicate that the facilities will serve as training centers and operational hubs, making it more challenging for authorities to monitor activities.

Digital wallets, such as Easypaisa and SadaPay, are reportedly being used for wallet-to-wallet transfers, with funds converted to cash or split into smaller amounts once accumulated. Azhar and his family are said to manage multiple wallets simultaneously, rotating them every few months to avoid detection. Social media platforms like Facebook and WhatsApp are being used to circulate appeals for donations, often through proxy accounts linked to JeM commanders.

In addition to online channels, reports suggest contributions are collected in mosques under the guise of charitable donations. Charities, such as the Al Rahmat Trust, based in Bahawalpur and alleged to have links to JeM leadership, reportedly play a key role in routing these funds. These collections are claimed to support humanitarian causes but are believed by intelligence officials to finance organizational operations, including weapons procurement, training facilities, communication systems, and logistical support.

According to sources, nearly 80 percent of JeM’s finances are now reportedly managed through digital wallets, with annual transactions estimated at PKR 800–900 million. A significant portion of these funds is believed to originate from supporters overseas, particularly in Gulf countries.

Experts note that the shift to digital wallets may allow JeM to bypass traditional banking scrutiny, including monitoring by global organisations such as the Financial Action Task Force (FATF). By operating outside conventional financial channels, the group can continue fundraising even amid increased scrutiny following Indian military operations.

This development underscores a broader trend in terror financing, where online platforms and digital payment systems are increasingly exploited for operational funding. Authorities continue to monitor these channels to prevent misuse and curb the growth of extremist networks.