ISLAMABAD:Alleged leaked documents reportedly obtained following a breach of the Taliban’s General Directorate of Intelligence (GDI) have claimed the existence of a network of pro-Taliban social media operatives receiving monthly payments to promote the group’s narratives online.
According to the documents cited by sources, mid-tier influencers are said to be receiving between $3,500 and $4,000 per month. The documents also name several individuals, including Haider Hashmi, Waqeel Mubariz, Burhanuddin, and a team associated with Mullah Yaqoob, alleging they receive higher amounts.
The alleged leak claims these operatives run multiple troll accounts with names such as ASF, Wahida, Al Mirsad, Ustad Burmak, Islamabad Post, and Info Monitor.
The documents further allege that the individuals have access to social media pages of Afghan media outlets and frequently post content on platforms including Khama, Paank, Pajhwok, Shamshad News, TOLO, and VOH.
It also alleges that they operate accounts linked to FAK-related pages such as Nuqta, War Globe, Huriyat, and Markhor Facts to amplify pro-Taliban messaging across social media platforms.
Critics quoted in connection with the leak argue that while ordinary Afghans face economic hardship, resources are being spent on online information campaigns instead.
The Taliban administration has not issued an official comment on the alleged breach or the authenticity of the documents.
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