ALEXANDRIA, Va. (FOX5, 12/9/09) Five local college students are in Pakistan and under arrest and under investigation for possible ties to terrorism. The FBI says the men have been missing more than a week now.
Authorities say were picked up today in Eastern Pakistan during an anti-terror raid. They were found at the home of a jihadist activist who has been branded a terrorist by the U.S.
The Islamic community is out front in this investigation. In fact, local leaders and the parents of the five Alexandria men tipped off federal authorities. Now, they are making a plea for others to come forward.
The biggest clue came from a farewell video left behind.
"The fact that left behind the video is concern. I have seen the video and was very disturbed by it. We thank the family and applaud their courage," said Nahid Awad, Executive Director, Council on American-Islamic Relations
Worried family member came to them once a disturbing video surfaced after the five students disappeared on November 29.
"I recall the video is 11 minutes. It's like a farewell and they did not specify what they will be doing," said Awad.
As officials in Pakistan detain the five and explore their possible extremist ties, local Islamic leaders worry about backlash.
"I want to make sure it's not a reflection of the entire Muslim community. Our youth are out doing good things," said Rafi Uddin Ahmedwith of the Virginia Muslim Association.
"We stand shoulder to shoulder with our young people are not to be demonized or characterized as terrorists suspects, but to be characterized of what they really are-- America's brightest prospects," said Imam Mehdi Brey, Executive Director of MAS Freedom Foundation.
The video—which is now in the hands of the FBI-- did not say what their intentions were. Local leaders say there was never a hint of extremism from the five at local mosques. It's why they too are sending out a message of their own.
"Our young people we are determined will not be prey for Muslim or other groups that lead them in the wrong direction," said Brey.
"We urge all those who have more information about case and inform authorities and let us know about us," said Awad.
The video is said to talk about defending Muslims and shows images of U.S. casualties.
Islamic leaders pledged to start a nationwide campaign to counter recruitment efforts by radical groups.
None of the five students was known to law enforcement before this. At this point, they are not charged with any crimes.
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