New Delhi, Apr 10: A spy network, run by Pakistan’s notorious intelligence agency ISI, has been busted by the Delhi Police which has arrested 11 people in this connection.
The network had the involvement of Babbar Khalsa International (BKI), which is listed as a terrorist organisation by the Ministry of Home Affairs.
According to initial probe, the spying was done through the CCTV cameras which the suspects had placed near sensitive defence and security installations in various parts of the country.
These devices broadcast live feeds to Pakistani handlers through mobile software.
The accused were arrested during a crackdown at various places in Delhi and Punjab.
While 6 were arrested in Delhi, 5 were held in Punjab.
The accused were in direct contact with handlers based in Pakistan through encrypted messaging apps, the police said.
They were allegedly receiving instructions to carry out spying and other activities that could threaten national security.
In Delhi, nine solar-powered CCTV units placed near sensitive defence and security sites were seized, police said.
Besides, four handguns — three imported PX5 weapons and one local pistol – were also recovered along with 24 live rounds, the police said.
Investigators said the module was financed through UPI transfers, partially funded by illicit weapons trafficking.
The suspects arrested in Punjab were tasked with scouting sensitive Army and paramilitary bases, providing photos and footage to their overseas handlers, the investigators said.
The group had deployed CCTV cameras at various sites across Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan to track high-security zones, they said.
Investigations indicated that this network also worked on radicalising and drafting youths for terrorism, spying, and arms smuggling.
The cell was plotting terrorist strikes, such as grenade hits on security facilities, the investigators said.
Investigations continue to locate remaining network members and reveal the total scope of this conspiracy.
A few days back, a similar network was unearthed in Ghaziabad district of Uttar Pradesh on the outskirts of Delhi. (NVI)
