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In a meticulously planned operation spanning from January to March 2025, Indian intelligence agencies successfully dismantled an ISI-backed spy network, effectively thwarting a potential terror attack targeted at the heart of India's national capital. The operation, lauded by authorities as a 'masterclass in espionage craft,' culminated in the arrest of two key individuals: Ansarul Miya Ansari, a Pakistani-trained operative of Nepali origin, and Akhlaque Azam, an Indian national who provided logistical support to the operation from within the country. The arrest of Ansarul Miya Ansari on February 15th in central Delhi marked a crucial turning point in the investigation. Ansari was found to be in possession of confidential documents related to the Indian Armed Forces and was apprehended while attempting to exit India via Nepal. This seemingly routine arrest subsequently unraveled a far more significant and intricate operation, directly linked to Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI). The genesis of the operation can be traced back to a vague yet urgent tip-off received by Indian intelligence agencies. The intelligence suggested the presence of a foreign agent who had infiltrated Delhi via Nepal with the intention of gathering sensitive military information. The stakes were incredibly high, with sources revealing plans for a potential strike targeting strategically important sites, including Palam Air Force Base, the CGO Complex, and Delhi Cantonment. Indian intelligence officers responded to the threat with precision and efficiency. A source closely involved in the operation stated, 'Our men were making efforts to collect information about Pak-backed terror outfits active in different parts of India and sleeper cells providing logistic support to them.' The mission was specifically activated in response to escalating threats in the region, particularly in the wake of ISI-supported groups such as Babbar Khalsa International launching grenade attacks in Punjab. Recognizing the imminent danger to Delhi, Indian agencies made the decisive move to disrupt the network. Ansarul Ansari's journey into the world of espionage began far from the Indian subcontinent. During interrogation, Ansari confessed that he had been employed as a taxi driver in Qatar since 2008. It was during this time that he was recruited by an ISI handler. 'In June 2024, he visited Pakistan for a month, where he was introduced to high-ranking officials of the Pakistani Army and radicalised by discussing issues like the Babri Masjid demolition and the implementation of CAA/NRC in India,' the court report detailed. Ansari underwent training in spycraft and was entrusted with the mission to enter Delhi via Nepal, collect classified military secrets, and transmit them back to the ISI. His assignment also involved creating a CD containing the stolen documents to ensure their secure transfer.
Following Ansari's arrest, interrogation yielded a crucial lead, pointing towards another key suspect: Akhlaque Azam. Azam was arrested in March during a coordinated raid in Ranchi. Allegedly, Azam provided logistical support to Ansari while maintaining regular communication with Pakistani handlers. According to sources, 'The two were in constant communication with their Pakistani handlers, and their conversations were laced with suspicion and intrigue.' The analysis of mobile phone data uncovered incriminating exchanges, hinting at a much broader conspiracy. Digital traces led back to known ISI operatives, identified as Muzammil and Ehsan-ur-Rahim, also known as Danish. Interestingly, these names had surfaced in separate investigations concerning the activities of Pakistani diplomatic staff stationed in Delhi. The investigation further revealed evidence of involvement by individuals within the Pakistan High Commission. Indian authorities suspect that diplomatic cover may have been exploited by ISI officers who were attempting to influence local YouTubers and social media influencers, potentially turning them into unwitting conduits of information. In a related crackdown, Jyoti Malhotra, a YouTuber from Hisar, Haryana, was arrested for allegedly sharing sensitive information and maintaining regular contact with a Pakistani citizen. The gravity of the case prompted the filing of a chargesheet in May under the Official Secrets Act. Both Ansari and Azam are currently held in high-security custody at Tihar Jail. Authorities are maintaining strict vigilance to prevent them from radicalizing or influencing other inmates within the prison system. The trial is expected to commence in the near future. A senior officer involved in the probe commented, 'We are on high alert to prevent any threats to national security. It may be a cat-and-mouse game, but India’s agencies want to be the ones holding the reins.'
The operation is widely regarded as a pre-emptive success, not only in thwarting an espionage plot but also in exposing the deeper network of foreign influence attempting to undermine India's internal security from within. The arrest of Ansarul Miya Ansari and Akhlaque Azam underscores the persistent threat posed by external intelligence agencies seeking to destabilize India. The meticulous planning and execution of the operation highlight the capabilities and vigilance of Indian intelligence agencies in countering such threats. The investigation's focus on individuals both inside and outside the country reflects the complexity of modern espionage operations. The reliance on digital communication and the potential exploitation of social media influencers highlight the evolving tactics employed by intelligence agencies. The alleged involvement of individuals within the Pakistan High Commission raises serious questions about the misuse of diplomatic cover for illicit activities. The case serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining strong internal security measures and fostering collaboration between intelligence agencies and law enforcement. The successful disruption of the spy network is a testament to the dedication and professionalism of Indian intelligence personnel. The upcoming trial will provide further insights into the extent of the conspiracy and the motivations of those involved. The case also underscores the need for increased vigilance against foreign attempts to influence public opinion and spread disinformation. The ongoing efforts to monitor and counter such threats are crucial for safeguarding India's national interests. The operation serves as a deterrent to other potential actors who may seek to engage in similar activities. The successful apprehension of the suspects sends a clear message that India will not tolerate attempts to undermine its security or sovereignty. The case also highlights the importance of international cooperation in combating terrorism and espionage. The sharing of intelligence and the coordination of law enforcement efforts are essential for addressing transnational threats. The continued vigilance and proactive measures taken by Indian authorities are vital for ensuring the safety and security of the nation.
The investigation into the ISI-backed spy network also reveals the sophisticated methods employed by intelligence agencies to recruit and radicalize individuals. Ansarul Ansari's recruitment as a taxi driver in Qatar highlights the potential for exploitation in seemingly ordinary professions. The radicalization process, which involved discussions about sensitive issues such as the Babri Masjid demolition and the implementation of the CAA/NRC, demonstrates the manipulative tactics used to incite hatred and division. The training provided to Ansari in spycraft underscores the importance of understanding the techniques used by intelligence agencies to gather and transmit information. The assignment given to Ansari, which involved collecting classified military secrets and creating a CD for secure transfer, highlights the potential for significant damage to national security. The logistical support provided by Akhlaque Azam demonstrates the critical role played by individuals within the country in facilitating espionage activities. The constant communication between Ansari and Azam and their Pakistani handlers highlights the importance of monitoring and disrupting such communication networks. The digital traces leading back to known ISI operatives Muzammil and Ehsan-ur-Rahim underscore the need to track and identify individuals involved in espionage activities. The alleged involvement of individuals within the Pakistan High Commission raises concerns about the potential for abuse of diplomatic privileges. The arrest of Jyoti Malhotra, a YouTuber from Hisar, Haryana, highlights the potential for social media platforms to be used for espionage purposes. The filing of a chargesheet under the Official Secrets Act demonstrates the seriousness of the case and the determination of Indian authorities to prosecute those involved. The high-security custody of Ansari and Azam at Tihar Jail reflects the need to prevent them from further engaging in radicalization or espionage activities. The upcoming trial will provide an opportunity to present evidence and seek justice for the crimes committed. The senior officer's remark about the 'cat-and-mouse game' between Indian agencies and foreign intelligence agencies underscores the ongoing nature of the threat to national security.
The operation’s success lies not only in the arrests and the prevention of the immediate terror threat but also in the disruption of a larger network of individuals and resources supporting ISI activities within India. The exposure of the network’s links to the Pakistan High Commission, the identification of key ISI operatives, and the arrest of individuals like the YouTuber from Haryana all contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of the methods and resources being employed to undermine Indian security. This intelligence can then be used to develop more effective counter-espionage strategies and to proactively address emerging threats. Furthermore, the case highlights the importance of public awareness and vigilance in identifying and reporting suspicious activities. The public's role in providing information to law enforcement and intelligence agencies can be critical in preventing future attacks and disrupting espionage networks. The media also plays a crucial role in informing the public about the threats posed by foreign intelligence agencies and in promoting a culture of security consciousness. The collaboration between different Indian intelligence agencies and law enforcement organizations in this operation demonstrates the importance of inter-agency cooperation in addressing complex security challenges. The sharing of information, the coordination of resources, and the joint planning of operations are all essential for effectively countering espionage and terrorism. The success of this operation can also serve as a deterrent to other individuals and organizations considering engaging in similar activities. The message is clear that India will not tolerate attempts to undermine its security and will vigorously pursue and prosecute those involved. Finally, the operation underscores the importance of investing in intelligence gathering and analysis capabilities. The ability to gather timely and accurate intelligence, to analyze that intelligence effectively, and to act decisively based on that intelligence is essential for protecting national security. The Indian government must continue to invest in these capabilities and to ensure that its intelligence agencies have the resources and training they need to effectively counter the evolving threats posed by foreign intelligence agencies and terrorist organizations.