NIA Arrests Three for Leaking Defence Information to Pakistan
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has apprehended three individuals accused of leaking sensitive information about Indian defence establishments to Pakistan-based intelligence operatives. The arrested individuals, identified as Vethan Laxman Tandel and Akshay Ravi Naik from Uttara Kannada district in Karnataka, and Abhilash P.A. from Kochi, Kerala, were allegedly in contact with Pakistani Intelligence Operatives (PIOs) through social media platforms. Investigations reveal that they shared classified details regarding the Karwar and Kochi Naval Bases in exchange for monetary compensation.
Ongoing Investigation Uncovers Wider Espionage Network
These recent arrests bring the total number of individuals apprehended in this case to eight. The NIA has previously filed charges against five persons, including two absconding Pakistani operatives. The case, initially registered by the Counter Intelligence Cell of Andhra Pradesh in January 2021, was taken over by the NIA in June 2023. Further investigations have identified Pakistan national Meer Balaj Khan and an individual named Akash Solanki as key figures in the espionage racket, which aimed to leak sensitive information about the Indian Navy as part of an anti-India conspiracy. Another absconding PIO, Alven, along with Manmohan Surendra Panda and Amaan Salim Shaikh, have also been chargesheeted by the NIA.
NIA’s Commitment to National Security
The NIA remains steadfast in its efforts to dismantle espionage networks operating against India’s national interests. The agency is continuing its probe to uncover the full extent of the conspiracy orchestrated by Pakistan-based and other anti-national elements. These arrests underscore the ongoing threat posed by espionage activities and highlight the importance of vigilant counterintelligence operations to safeguard India’s defence establishments.
