Civilian Employee Arrested for Allegedly Passing Military Secrets to Pakistan
A 36-year-old civilian employee posted at an Air Force station in Assam was arrested on Sunday for allegedly passing sensitive military information to Pakistan-based handlers. Officials described this as a joint Rajasthan Intelligence and Air Force Intelligence operation that has exposed a wider espionage network.
Details of the Accused and Allegations
The accused, Sumit Kumar, is a resident of Prayagraj in Uttar Pradesh. He was working as Multi-Tasking Staff at Air Force Station Chabua in Assam. Investigators revealed that Kumar had been in contact with Pakistani intelligence operatives since 2023 and was allegedly sharing confidential information in exchange for money.
Background and Investigation
The case traces back to January, when Rajasthan Intelligence arrested Jaisalmer resident Jhabraram. During interrogation, Kumar's name emerged as a key link in the network. Following this, agencies placed him under surveillance to gather evidence.
Officials stated that Kumar allegedly misused his position to access and pass on highly sensitive information related to Air Force operations. This included details of fighter aircraft deployment, missile systems, and information on officers and personnel at Air Force Station Chabua and Air Force Station Nal in Bikaner.
Covert Communication Methods
Investigators also discovered that Kumar allegedly assisted Pakistani handlers in creating social media accounts using mobile numbers registered in his name. This method was used to facilitate covert communication, allowing the exchange of information without detection.
Arrest and Legal Action
On confirmed intelligence inputs, Rajasthan Intelligence, in coordination with Air Force Intelligence, detained Kumar from Chabua. He was brought to Jaipur's Central Interrogation Centre for questioning. After a joint interrogation by multiple agencies, he was formally arrested under the Official Secrets Act, 1923, and relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.
Significance of the Operation
Officials hailed the operation as a significant breakthrough, indicating it points to a broader Pakistan-backed espionage network targeting defence installations across India. They emphasized that this arrest is part of ongoing efforts to dismantle such networks and protect national security.
Further investigation is currently underway to identify other links and handlers involved in this espionage ring. Authorities are working to uncover the full extent of the network and prevent future breaches of sensitive military information.
