By Wong Chun Wai, Sira Habibu, and Nicholas Cheng
Ustaz Lotfi Ariffin (left) and Akil UK's (right) in Syria. -bicaraworld.blogspot.com
PETALING JAYA: PAS Dewan Ulama member and Kedah PAS Youth information chief Ustaz Lotfi Ariffin has been identified as one of the Malaysians who have travelled to Syria to join a militant movement.
An investigation by The Star found that Lotfi has openly uploaded photographs and video clip of himself in social media while his supporters have also blogged about his exploits.
Tomorrow The Star will run exclusive stories on Malaysians believed to have been recruited by the ruthless Jabhat al-Nusra or the Al Nusra Front, an Al Qaeda off shoot behind beheadings and murders, operating in Syria and Lebanon.
Another Malaysian militant, who has been featured prominently on pro-militant websites and blogs, is former 90s Malay pop group drummer, Akil UK’s, which had a string of hit songs.
He is said to have been influenced by Lotfi and had joined the latter in entering Syria, where both are seen heavily armed and in fatigues.
