Rajasthan Police Uncover Espionage Network Linked to Terrorism

Rajasthan Police have made a significant breakthrough by arresting a young man linked to a Pakistan-based terrorist, disrupting an espionage network. The accused, Akashdeep, was allegedly conducting reconnaissance across multiple states and sharing sensitive information. Authorities are concerned about the implications for national security and are continuing their investigation to uncover a broader network. This arrest follows a series of similar operations aimed at countering terrorism in the region.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 27, 2026, 12:14 IST

Major Espionage Network Disrupted

Jaipur, March 27: In a significant development, the Rajasthan Police have dismantled a suspected espionage operation connected to a terrorist based in Pakistan. A young man has been apprehended for allegedly conducting surveillance across various states and transmitting sensitive video footage, as confirmed by police officials on Friday.

The individual, identified as Akashdeep (20), hails from Chak Kera and is originally from Village 12 H, located under the jurisdiction of the Kesrisinghpur police station. He was taken into custody by the Lalgarh Jatan police for reportedly maintaining communication with Shahzad Bhatti, a terrorist operating from Pakistan, via social media.

District Superintendent of Police Hari Shankar stated that due to the district's proximity to the international border, intelligence activities are rigorously monitored. Following specific intelligence regarding suspicious behavior, an investigation was initiated, revealing that Akashdeep frequently communicated with Pakistani phone numbers (+92) through Instagram and WhatsApp, including voice calls.

During questioning, Akashdeep admitted to conducting reconnaissance of critical locations in Punjab, Rajasthan, Delhi, Chandigarh, and Ambala (Haryana) as per Bhatti's directives.

He allegedly recorded videos of crowded and strategically significant areas, which he then sent to Pakistan via WhatsApp, along with information about access routes.

The police have confiscated the accused's mobile device and SIM card, uncovering conversations with several suspicious contacts based in Pakistan. Investigators also discovered an AI-altered image where Akashdeep had digitally inserted himself alongside the terrorist, presumably to instill fear among locals.

Station House Officer Gurmel Singh characterized him as having a criminal background, noting that he frequently intimidated villagers by claiming connections with terrorists.

Authorities indicated that the accused's actions represented a grave threat to national security, sovereignty, and integrity, necessitating prompt action. A case has been filed under applicable laws, and further investigations are ongoing to identify the broader network.

This arrest follows a series of similar operations. On March 13, individuals associated with Shahzad Bhatti were detained in Ambala, Haryana, where explosives were seized, thwarting a potential attack.

Additionally, on March 24, another associate was captured in Hanumangarh. Police suspect that the terrorist handler is managing an India-based network through social media and digital platforms, with more arrests anticipated as the investigation progresses.

--IANS