In the wake of the Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 lives on April 22, and India's subsequent retaliation through Operation Sindoor targeting terror camps across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, Indian security agencies have been actively cracking down on espionage networks allegedly backed by Pakistan. These operations have led to multiple arrests across several states, exposing a web of individuals accused of spying and aiding enemy operations.
Recent reports indicate that at least nine individuals have been detained across Haryana, Punjab, and Uttar Pradesh on suspicion of spying for Pakistan. The arrests include a diverse group of people, including a travel content creator, a postgraduate student, and several others from varied backgrounds. This widespread network utilized mobile applications and even jail inmates to gather and transmit sensitive information, with some individuals allegedly receiving monetary compensation for their activities.
One of the prominent arrests was that of Jyoti Malhotra, a Haryana-based YouTuber with a significant online presence. She is accused of being in contact with Pakistani officials, including one identified as Danish posted at the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi, during the recent military conflict. Authorities suspect that Malhotra was being cultivated as an "asset" for future spy operations and had previously been seen in the vicinity of Pahalgam shortly before the terror attack. Her financial transactions and travel details are currently under scrutiny, with investigators examining electronic devices seized from her possession.
Another individual apprehended is Devendra Singh Dhillon, a postgraduate student from Katihar, accused of sharing sensitive details about the Patiala Air Force Station with Pakistani handlers. His activities were uncovered during an investigation into a separate case where he had uploaded pictures of guns on Facebook.
In Punjab, two individuals identified as Sukhpreet Singh and Karanbir Singh were arrested for allegedly leaking classified details related to Operation Sindoor, including troop movements and key strategic locations in Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, and Jammu and Kashmir, to Pakistan's intelligence agency, ISI. These individuals were reportedly involved in drug smuggling activities and received financial compensation for their espionage activities.
These arrests highlight the multi-faceted nature of Pakistan's alleged spy network, with individuals being lured through various means, including social media, monetary incentives, and false promises. Authorities believe that Pakistani intelligence operatives are actively targeting young social media influencers and other vulnerable individuals for recruitment.
The investigation is ongoing, with authorities invoking the Official Secrets Act and Information Technology Act in several cases. The crackdown underscores the heightened tensions between India and Pakistan and the ongoing efforts to safeguard national security in the face of cross-border terrorism and espionage.
