Law Enforcement Agencies (LEAs) have arrested a key facilitator of an alleged foreign-funded digital propaganda network accused of running coordinated disinformation campaigns on Pakistani social media, security sources said.
The suspect allegedly received more than Rs3.6 million through international payment platforms and overseas bank accounts to channel foreign funds into Pakistan under the cover of digital marketing and online promotion services. During interrogation, the individual reportedly confessed to promoting specific narratives in exchange for substantial payments.
Investigators said the network relied on legitimate-looking international financial channels, including Stripe, Payoneer and UK-based bank accounts, to transfer the funds. The money was allegedly used to amplify fabricated and misleading content across TikTok, X, Instagram and Facebook.
According to security sources, the campaign was designed to create a divide between the public and armed forces, undermine institutional trust and destabilise law and order. The network also allegedly pushed negative narratives related to Indian-occupied Kashmir and the banned Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC).
Investigators found that inactive social media accounts bearing Pakistani identities were operated through VPNs and automation tools to mask their true locations. Digital forensic analysis reportedly linked device footprints and IP addresses used in the operation to India and other foreign countries.
Authorities said they have secured emails, financial records and order histories tied to the network and are widening the investigation to identify and arrest other alleged facilitators.
