Authorities in Andhra Pradesh have intensified a counter-intelligence investigation into a suspected Pakistan-linked espionage network, with 18 people, including 13 personnel associated with the Indian Navy, reportedly under scrutiny.
The Andhra Pradesh counter-intelligence wing has launched a coordinated operation across several states and Union territories to investigate suspected contacts between the individuals and Pakistan-linked intelligence operatives. Searches have been carried out in locations including Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, Maharashtra and Karnataka, with investigators examining possible communications through encrypted platforms.
The investigation is also focused on whether sensitive information relating to naval and defence establishments in Visakhapatnam may have been accessed and shared with foreign operatives. Electronic devices and other material have reportedly been seized during the searches.
Two individuals have so far been arrested in connection with the probe.
In Visakhapatnam, Annam Sai Varaprasad, a civilian contract driver working with the Navy, was arrested on allegations of sharing sensitive information concerning defence establishments with a Pakistan-linked operative. Investigators are also looking into whether he received financial compensation in return for the information. He was subsequently produced before a court and remanded in judicial custody until October 14.
In a separate case, Navy sailor Pradeep Mukherjee, 31, was arrested in Coimbatore during a joint investigation involving counter-intelligence officials from Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu. Mukherjee, who joined the Navy in 2014 and was attending a training programme in Coimbatore, is accused of sharing classified maritime information with Pakistan-linked operatives. Investigators suspect he may have been drawn into the alleged network through a honeytrap.
The investigation into the other 16 individuals is continuing. Authorities are examining their digital communications, financial transactions, electronic devices and possible links with foreign intelligence operatives as part of the wider probe.
The allegations remain subject to investigation and judicial proceedings.
