Involved in cross-border smuggling and espionage activities for Pakistan's ISI; man arrested in Uttar Pradesh

NEW DELHI: A businessman has been arrested in Uttar Pradesh for allegedly spying for Pakistan. The arrested person has been identified as Rampur native Shahzad. He was arrested by the Special Task Force of the Uttar Pradesh police from Moradabad. Police suspect that he was involved in cross-border smuggling and espionage activities for Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI).

According to the police, the accused had handed over strategically sensitive information related to national security to Pakistan. Shahzad had travelled to Pakistan multiple times and under the guise of these visits, he allegedly smuggled cosmetic products, clothes, spices and other objects. He reportedly established close contacts with ISI operatives during these trips.

Investigations have revealed that Shahzad provided money and Indian SIM cards to ISI agents operating within India. Police also alleged that he helped to send several individuals from Rampur and other parts of Uttar Pradesh to Pakistan to hire them for activities related to ISI.

Central investigative agencies are currently working to apprehend individuals engaged in espionage activities against India from within the country. This move comes in the wake of Operation Sindoor, which aimed to uncover attempts to leak military secrets and spread misinformation. In recent actions, ten individuals allegedly involved in terrorist activities were arrested across the country with cooperation from respective state police forces.

Social media has also reportedly become a tool for espionage activities by Pakistan. This came to light after the interrogation of Jyoti Malhotra, a YouTuber from Haryana who was recently arrested. Reports suggest that Malhotra encouraged other vloggers to get involved in similar activities. A female vlogger from Puri, Odisha is also currently under surveillance. According to Hisar Police, Pakistan’s intelligence agency directly contacted several vloggers. Authorities are examining Jyoti’s mobile phone, electronic devices, and financial transactions as part of the investigation.