It is time that families start approaching the authorities as soon as they notice red flags. It is difficult for any parent to complain against their children, but more of them would come forward if they felt reassured that the police would take a studied, measured approach and work to de-radicalise the men.

Perhaps these families will benefit if there were someone, like religious leaders, to liaison with the authorities. If people are wary of going to the cops directly, these leaders can lend a ear at least, hear out what the parents have to say, and then, point them in the right direction. Of course, if they sense imminent danger, then no matter the consequences, the right thing to do is inform the police immediately.

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Having said that, one has to accept these are very difficult options. Families may not automatically realise that their children are going the wrong way. The police or mediators may not have the luxury of time, to wait and take a call.

It’s time to for everyone to join their forces to prevent the IS from gaining strength in the nation. It will take a concerted effort from everyone, citizen to cop, to first recognise, then confront and finally defeat this threat.