Lucknow – A major espionage network operated by Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) has been unearthed in Uttar Pradesh, with young individuals from multiple cities suspected of spying for the foreign agency. The startling revelation came after the Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) arrested Tufail from Varanasi and Mohammad Harun from Delhi, uncovering links to a wider group of youth potentially involved in anti-national activities.
Youth from UP Cities Under ATS Radar
Interrogation of Tufail and Harun has revealed a nexus of communication with youths from various UP cities including Lucknow, Kanpur, Rampur, Aligarh, Moradabad, Bareilly, Meerut, and Saharanpur. These individuals are now under intense scrutiny, as investigation agencies are actively pursuing leads to dismantle the entire network.
Internet Media: A Tool for Espionage Recruitment
According to ATS sources, the ISI has strategically used social media and encrypted messaging platforms to lure and radicalize young individuals in UP. WhatsApp groups, Facebook profiles, and other internet platforms were employed to connect agents with potential recruits, prompting them to participate in espionage and other anti-national tasks.
Key Leads from Tufail and Harun
Tufail, the Varanasi native, was found to be in direct contact with ISI handlers through a WhatsApp group named “Umeed-e-Shahar.” Forensic analysis of his mobile phone revealed multiple Pakistani numbers, suggesting deeply rooted connections with ISI operatives.
Meanwhile, Mohammad Harun from Delhi has reportedly provided the ATS with critical information regarding his network and associates. Investigators are also probing his bank accounts to trace the money trail linked to espionage activities. Particular attention is being paid to funds allegedly supplied by Muzammil Hussain, a staffer at the Pakistan High Commission, believed to have funneled money to Harun for carrying out ISI directives.
Arrests and Ongoing Investigation
The arrests took place on May 21, following separate operations in Varanasi and Delhi. Both Tufail and Harun have been placed under seven-day police remand, during which intensive questioning continues. The ATS has since launched operations across multiple UP cities to identify, track, and apprehend all individuals connected to this espionage ring.
Authorities have called this a critical mission for national security, emphasizing that unearthing this ISI network is essential for maintaining India’s internal safety and thwarting future threats.
Security agencies are on high alert as investigations progress, and more arrests are likely in the coming days as the full scale of the ISI’s digital espionage strategy in India begins to surface.
