Uttar Pradesh ATS Arrests Alleged ISI Agent Involved in Espionage and Smuggling Operations
In a breakthrough, the Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) has arrested a man allegedly working for Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI). The accused, identified as Shehzad, hails from Rampur district and was apprehended in Moradabad on Saturday.
The arrest comes amid an ongoing nationwide operation targeting individuals suspected of spying for Pakistani intelligence agencies—a crackdown that has already led to the detention of several individuals, including social media personalities and content creators.
According to a statement from the ATS, Shehzad had long been under surveillance after receiving credible intelligence linking him to cross-border smuggling activities operating under the ISI’s protection.
Investigations revealed that Shehzad had made multiple visits to Pakistan and was engaged in illegal trade across the India-Pakistan border, dealing in goods such as cosmetics, garments, spices, and other items. Authorities believe the smuggling network served as a cover for more serious espionage-related operations.
Police further stated that Shehzad developed close ties with several ISI handlers and was involved in passing sensitive national security information to the Pakistani intelligence agency. Beyond intelligence-sharing, he allegedly assisted in enabling ISI activities within Indian territory.
The probe also revealed that Shehzad facilitated monetary transfers to Pakistani agents operating in India and was instrumental in sending individuals from Rampur and surrounding areas to Pakistan under the guise of smuggling. These individuals were reportedly recruited for ISI-linked missions.
Visa arrangements and travel documentation for these recruits were allegedly secured with assistance from ISI contacts, investigators added.
In a significant security breach, Shehzad is also accused of procuring and supplying Indian SIM cards to ISI operatives, potentially aiding covert communications and operations.
The ATS has filed a case against Shehzad under Sections 148 and 152 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita at the ATS police station in Lucknow. He has been presented before a magistrate, and further legal proceedings are currently underway.