Spying racket: 7 phones, 3 bank accounts linked to arrested GB Nagar youths under police scanner

Noida: Two GB Nagar youths arrested for allegedly spying at the behest of Pakistan-based handlers are suspected to have been in touch with them through encrypted social media platforms like Signal, Telegram and Instagram.Seven mobile numbers and three bank accounts linked to the accused are currently under surveillance as investigators attempt to uncover the full extent of the suspected network. They alleged the accused were paid via QR code transactions, making financial tracking hard. Forensic analysis is underway to map their contacts, communication patterns and the scale of the network.The accused, Lokesh alias Papla alias Babu alias Sanju (19) and Vikas Gehlawat alias Raunak (27, both residents of Chhapraula village in GB Nagar, were arrested by the UP anti-terrorism squad (ATS) on April 2.Officials said the accused planned a major sabotage at Lucknow railway station on April 2, targeting signal systems to cause chaos. However, ATS foiled the plot and arrested the duo before they could execute their plans.The duo, led by handlers, allegedly planned to spread panic by targeting railway signals, government institutions, and public infrastructure. They said reconnaissance was already carried out in multiple cities as part of the alleged conspiracy.

The probe further revealed that both Lokesh and Vikas were aware that they had joined a terror network run from across the border. A video found during the investigation confirms they spoke with handlers on a conference call.Agencies also linked them to an arson attack in Punjab’s Kiratpur area, where a pickup truck was set on fire with other suspects. The gang recorded arson videos and sent them to handlers to spread fear and insecurity among the public.Officials say they came into contact with the handlers via social media around six months ago. During this period, their behaviour changed, and they frequently remained away from home for several days.The case has also sparked criticism of local intelligence in GB Nagar for failing to spot suspicious activity, especially since extremists and wanted criminals have previously been found hiding in residential colonies. Authorities noted that the accused lived in Ram Vihar Colony, Chhapraula, an illegal settlement where tenant verification is poorly enforced.