New Delhi: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) launched a massive counter-espionage operation on Saturday, conducting simultaneous raids at 15 locations across eight states. This extensive crackdown is part of an ongoing investigation into a Pakistan-linked spying case, with crucial leads emerging from the recent arrest of a Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) jawan.
The raids targeted the residences of people suspected of collaborating with Pakistani intelligence operatives. Coordinated actions unfolded in Delhi, Mumbai (Maharashtra), Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, Assam, and West Bengal, according to a report by The Times of India.
During the intelligence-led operation, NIA teams reportedly seized a cache of electronic devices, sensitive financial documents, and other incriminating materials. These crucial items are now under forensic examination. According to the reports, the investigation agency seeks to unravel the intricacies of a spy ring believed to be orchestrated by agents based in Pakistan, as part of a broader anti-India terror plot.
The NIA officially registered a case on May 20, following the initial arrest of the CRPF jawan. Investigations revealed that the jawan had allegedly been sharing classified information related to national security with Pakistani operatives since 2023. In exchange for leaking sensitive data, he purportedly received funds channelled through various channels within India.
The former jawan has since been dismissed from service and is currently in NIA custody. The ongoing investigation is being conducted under stringent legal provisions, including sections 61(2), 147, and 148 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), sections 3 and 5 of the Official Secrets Act 1923 (pertaining to unauthorised communication of secret official information), and Section 18 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UA(P) Act), 1967, which addresses individuals involved in terrorist acts.
