New Delhi: Delhi Police's Special Cell has arrested a married couple, Md Sahil and Sameera, in connection with an investigation into an alleged Pakistan-backed espionage network, according to police.
Investigators allege that the couple had been involved in activities linked to the network since 2024, including arranging Indian SIM cards that were allegedly sent to Pakistan through Dubai.
SIM Cards Allegedly Sent Abroad
According to the police investigation, Sahil and Sameera allegedly procured Indian mobile SIM cards and arranged for them to be transported to Pakistan through Dubai.
Police suspect that Pakistani operatives subsequently used those numbers to activate WhatsApp accounts. These accounts were allegedly used to enter Indian WhatsApp groups and gather information that could be useful to the network.
Investigators are also examining allegations that the couple recruited other people in Delhi to help obtain Indian SIM cards.
How the Couple Was Allegedly Recruited
The investigation reportedly began with Sahil's contact with a person he met on Instagram in 2024.
According to police, the individual was initially known to Sahil through Sameera, who was reportedly his friend at the time. Sahil and Sameera later married.
Police allege that the Instagram contact subsequently introduced them to a Pakistani intelligence operative. The operative allegedly offered the couple money in return for carrying out tasks for the network.
The exact nature and extent of the couple's alleged activities are now being examined by investigators.
Police Investigating Wider Network
Authorities are reportedly looking beyond the two arrests to determine who else may have been involved in procuring SIM cards, transporting them abroad and facilitating communication with Pakistani operatives.
Investigators are expected to examine mobile phones, financial transactions, communication records and other digital evidence as part of the probe.
The alleged use of Indian SIM cards to create WhatsApp accounts and access Indian groups has also prompted investigators to examine whether sensitive information was obtained or passed to individuals outside the country.
Investigation Continues
The case highlights the growing role of social-media platforms in how intelligence operatives can allegedly establish contact with potential recruits.
However, the allegations against Sahil and Sameera have yet to be established in court. Their exact roles, the information allegedly collected and the extent of any connection with Pakistani intelligence will be determined through the investigation and judicial proceedings.
Delhi Police's Special Cell is continuing its probe, and further arrests or details could emerge if investigators uncover evidence of a larger network.
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