NIA conducts searches in multiple states in Pakistan-linked espionage case

The National Investigative Agency (NIA) on Saturday conducted a massive search operation at 15 locations in eight states across the country in connection with a Pakistan-linked espionage case.

Searches were conducted at the premises of suspects linked with Pakistani intelligence operatives in Delhi, Maharashtra (Mumbai), Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, Assam and West Bengal.

During the searches, NIA teams seized several electronic gadgets and sensitive financial documents, along with other incriminating materials, during the searches. These are being extensively examined for clues to the espionage racket being run by Pakistan-based operatives as part of an anti-India terror conspiracy.

As per NIA investigations, the suspects targeted in searches had connections with Pakistani operatives, and acted as financial conduits for carrying out espionage activities in India.

The anti-terror agency registered a case on May 20 following the arrest of an accused person who had been sharing sensitive information with Pakistani operatives since 2023. He had allegedly received funds through various conduits in India in exchange for leaking classified information related to national security.

The NIA is continuing with its investigation into the case, registered under sections 61(2), 147, 148 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), sections 3 and 5 of the Official Secrets Act 1923 and Section 18 of the UA(P) Act, 1967.