The Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) has arrested a Varanasi man named Tufail for allegedly spying for Pakistan. He is accused of passing sensitive information regarding India’s domestic security to Pakistani handlers, according to authorities.
Tufail is said to have sent videos of Maulana Shah Rizvi, the chief of the proscribed Pakistani terror group Tehreek-e-Labbaik, in different WhatsApp groups, as per the ATS statement. The videos were accompanied by messages propagating ‘Ghazwa-e-Hind’, revenge over the demolition of the Babri Masjid, and the implementation of Sharia law within India.
The probe also revealed that Tufail is said to have shared pictures of sensitive locations in Varanasi like Rajghat, Namo Ghat, Gyanvapi Mosque, the local railway station, and even the Red Fort with Pakistani handlers.
“He is also suspected to have shared WhatsApp group links in Varanasi that linked locals with Pakistan networks,” the ATS said.
Man arrested for ISI-linked spying and cross-border smuggling
In another case, the ATS arrested another man, Shehzad belonging to the Tanda locality in Rampur district, for allegedly working for Pakistan‘s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI). The arrest was made in Moradabad on Sunday following specific intelligence received by the authorities.
“The police arrested Shehzad from Moradabad on Sunday,” confirmed the ATS. The informant had accused Shehzad of being involved in espionage and illegal cross-border smuggling operations run by Pakistani agencies.
After his arrest, the ATS booked a case under various charges for activities prejudicial to India’s unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity. After investigation, it was found that Shehzad is said to have channeled money to Indian agents at the behest of ISI. He was also charged with recruiting individuals from Rampur and surrounding areas for fake smuggling work, whereas in actuality, their task was to pursue Pakistani intelligence objectives.
Authorities said ISI operatives arranged visas and travel documents for these recruits. Shehzad also allegedly supplied Indian SIM cards to allow for surveillance and spying within the country.