Rajasthan : Police Secure Custody of Suspected ISI Agent in Espionage Case
Rajasthan : authorities have placed a suspected operative of Pakistan’s intelligence agency in police custody as investigations deepen into an alleged espionage network operating near sensitive military areas. The suspect was produced before a local court on Saturday, a day after his arrest in Pokhran, and was remanded to five days of custodial interrogation ending February 4.
Court Orders Police Custody for Further Questioning
The accused, identified by investigators as Jhabararam, was presented before the Additional Chief Judicial Magistrate court in connection with allegations of spying on behalf of Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence. After hearing submissions from the prosecution, the court approved a five-day police remand to allow authorities to question him in detail and examine digital and financial evidence linked to the case.
Case Registered Under Official Secrets Law
Police confirmed that a formal case has been filed under the Official Secrets Act, 1923, which governs offenses involving the unauthorized sharing of information related to national security. Preliminary findings suggest that the suspect had access to material considered sensitive and may have transmitted such information to foreign handlers. Officials emphasized that the investigation remains at an early stage and that further disclosures will depend on evidence gathered during custody.
Arrest Followed Intelligence Surveillance Operation
The arrest was carried out on Friday by Rajasthan Intelligence in Pokhran, a town in Jaisalmer district located close to strategically important defense installations. According to senior officials, the operation followed sustained surveillance aimed at identifying individuals suspected of maintaining links with foreign intelligence agencies. Inputs gathered during this monitoring reportedly pointed to unusual communication patterns and activities associated with the accused.
Use of Social Media to Contact Handlers
Investigators revealed that the suspect was allegedly in regular contact with Pakistani intelligence operatives through social media platforms. These digital channels were reportedly used to exchange messages and receive instructions, making detection more challenging. Authorities are now analyzing phones, messaging applications, and online accounts to map the full extent of the communication network and identify any additional collaborators.
Allegations of Information Sharing for Incentives
Officials involved in the probe stated that Jhabararam is suspected of sharing information of strategic value related to the Indian Army. In return, he allegedly received financial incentives and was targeted through a honeytrap, a tactic commonly used to coerce or influence individuals into cooperation. Police noted that verifying the nature and sensitivity of the information shared remains a key focus of the ongoing inquiry.
Role of Messaging Applications Under Scrutiny
As part of the investigation, police are examining the use of messaging applications installed using one-time passwords sent to a SIM card registered in the suspect’s name. Authorities believe this method may have been employed to maintain covert communication with handlers while attempting to avoid immediate suspicion. Cyber experts are assisting the intelligence team in retrieving deleted data and tracing message trails.
State Intelligence Maintains Heightened Vigilance
Prafull Kumar, Additional Director General of Police (Intelligence), said that espionage attempts by foreign agencies are being closely watched across Rajasthan. He underscored that intelligence units remain on high alert, particularly in border districts and areas housing military assets. According to him, timely inputs and coordinated monitoring efforts are crucial to preventing breaches of national security.
Investigation Continues as Leads Are Tracked
Police indicated that questioning during the remand period will focus on identifying contacts, financial transactions, and any possible links to wider networks. Authorities have not ruled out further arrests if evidence points to additional individuals involved. Officials reiterated that due process will be followed and that conclusions will be drawn only after a thorough examination of all materials.