Expanding Web of Pakistani Espionage in India: IB, NIA Uncover Alarming Cross-Border Spy Network
- MGMMTeam
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
In a disturbing revelation highlighting the growing menace of cross-border espionage, Indian intelligence and counter-terrorism agencies have uncovered a sprawling network of Pakistani spies operating within the country. Over the past several weeks, coordinated operations led by the Intelligence Bureau (IB), National Investigation Agency (NIA), and state police units have resulted in the arrest of multiple individuals allegedly involved in leaking sensitive national information to Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI).
What began as isolated tip-offs has now unfolded into a national security threat of significant magnitude, exposing how civilian influencers, armed personnel, and even mobile SIM vendors are being roped into Pakistan’s complex spy web.
The Influencer Turned Informant
The most high-profile arrest in the recent wave was that of Jyoti Malhotra, a YouTuber from Haryana, who was taken into custody under serious charges of espionage. Security agencies claim she was in regular contact with Pakistani handlers and even visited the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi under the guise of media coverage. Her communications and bank transactions are being closely scrutinized to assess the extent of classified information she may have shared.
According to sources, Malhotra was allegedly lured with monetary promises and tasked with collecting logistical details of government establishments and movement patterns of security officials. Her social media following is now being examined for possible recruitment influence.
CRPF Insider Caught
In another alarming incident, a Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) jawan, Moti Ram Jat, was arrested by the NIA from Rajasthan. Officials state that he had been leaking critical deployment data, including training schedules and unit positions, to handlers operating from across the border. Preliminary investigation suggests he may have been honey-trapped during a social media interaction.
Mobile Networks Exploited
The network’s reach extends even to the local mobile SIM vendors. Mohammad Tareef from Mewat, Haryana, was found supplying SIM cards activated using forged documents. These were reportedly used to facilitate encrypted communication between agents and their Pakistani contacts. Tareef had previously been detained under suspicion but was arrested after conclusive digital forensics evidence emerged.
Rajasthan’s Emerging Espionage Hub
The Deeg area of Bharatpur in Rajasthan has also come under scrutiny after another alleged spy, Kasim, was apprehended by state police. He is accused of visiting Pakistan on multiple occasions and transmitting photographs and maps of local security installations. His arrest followed a targeted intelligence operation based on electronic surveillance.
Diplomatic Repercussions
As a consequence of the tightening noose around the ISI’s local assets, India recently declared a staffer from the Pakistan High Commission persona non grata for his alleged involvement in espionage activities. The move underscores India’s resolve to take firm diplomatic and legal action against such operations.
A Growing Threat Landscape
Intelligence analysts caution that these arrests may be the tip of the iceberg. What’s particularly concerning is the diversity of profiles being exploited — from influencers and paramilitary staff to tech-savvy civilians. The use of social media, encrypted apps, and financial bait points to a well-organized, multilayered espionage strategy designed to exploit India’s digital and democratic openness.
With the ongoing investigation revealing new names and digital trails each day, India’s counterintelligence agencies are on high alert. More arrests and surveillance operations are expected in the coming days as the government aims to dismantle the network entirely and plug vulnerabilities in its security infrastructure.
(Sources: First Post, India Times, Times of India)