Intelligence Bureau Arrests Duo for Espionage Linked to Pakistan-Based Handler
The Delhi unit of the Intelligence Bureau (IB) has made a significant arrest, apprehending two men from Hapur for allegedly sharing sensitive information with a Pakistan-based handler. Officials confirmed on Thursday that the individuals were involved in transmitting photos, videos, and location details of critical sites to gangster Shahzad Bhatti, who operates from across the border.
Details of the Arrest and Accused Individuals
According to Hapur SP Kunwar Gyananjay Singh, the arrested men are Azim Rana from Dhaulana in Hapur and his nephew Azad Rajput from Jai village in Meerut. Investigations revealed that they were in contact with Bhatti through various social media platforms. The accused specifically shared visuals and locations of sensitive locations, including a Sanatan Dharma temple in Delhi and the Ravana temple in Bisrakh village of Greater Noida, on February 19 this year.
Azim Rana first established contact with Bhatti via a social media platform in 2025. Initially, their interactions involved sharing general content, but it is alleged that Azim was later enticed with monetary offers to provide more sensitive inputs. The communication extended to other online platforms and included video calls, indicating a coordinated effort to gather intelligence.
Legal Actions and Ongoing Investigations
An FIR has been registered against both accused under multiple legal provisions. They face charges under BNS sections 152, which pertains to acts endangering the sovereignty, unity, and integrity of India, and 61 (2) for criminal conspiracy. Additionally, sections 3 and 5 of the Official Secrets Act 1923 have been invoked. Further interrogation is currently underway to uncover the full extent of the network and any potential accomplices.
Background on Handler and Security Concerns
Shahzad Bhatti, the Pakistan-based handler, has a long criminal background and is suspected of having links to cross-border networks. Indian agencies accuse him of using social media and encrypted platforms to recruit youths for espionage and reconnaissance activities. Officials highlighted that Bhatti employs financial inducements and digital outreach to expand his network, targeting vulnerable individuals and posing a serious threat to national security.
This case underscores the growing challenges in cybersecurity and border security, with authorities emphasizing the need for vigilance against such unlawful activities. The arrests are part of broader efforts to dismantle networks that compromise India's security through digital means.
