New Delhi, May 22, 2025 — In a significant breakthrough against cross-border espionage, the Delhi Police Special Cell has successfully dismantled a sleeper cell network operated by Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI). The operation, which was carried out over a span of three months, resulted in the arrest of two individuals allegedly working as spies for the Pakistani intelligence agency.
Arrests Reveal Espionage Plot
The first arrest was made in central Delhi, where Ansarul Mian Ansari, a Nepal-origin operative, was apprehended while attempting to escape. According to senior police officials, Ansari had previously worked in Qatar, where he was recruited by ISI agents. He later received espionage training in Pakistan before infiltrating India via Nepal.
The investigation revealed that Ansari was collecting sensitive information related to Indian military installations and strategic infrastructure. Upon his arrest, officials recovered confidential documents, spy gadgets, and digital storage devices that confirmed his involvement in espionage activities.
Based on leads obtained from Ansari, a second individual named Akhlaque Azam, a resident of Ranchi, was arrested. Azam is believed to have provided logistical and financial support to the operation. Both accused have been charged under the Official Secrets Act and are currently in judicial custody at Tihar Jail.
Long-Term Surveillance and Coordination
Delhi Police, working in close coordination with central intelligence agencies, conducted extensive surveillance and cyber-monitoring to track the movements and communications of the accused. Investigators suspect the involvement of a wider ISI-backed network operating across multiple Indian states, and further arrests may follow.
The operation is part of a broader counter-espionage effort that has intensified following increased cross-border tensions and recent terror threats. The agencies have highlighted how ISI has been targeting vulnerable individuals for recruitment, particularly those with overseas work experience, to form sleeper cells inside India.
National Security Implications
Officials believe the dismantled network was part of a larger ISI plan to orchestrate terror strikes and gather intelligence on India’s defense establishments. The arrests have triggered a security review in various high-sensitivity zones, including military areas and government facilities.
Intelligence agencies have confirmed that ISI has been attempting to activate sleeper cells across regions such as Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, and Haryana. Over a dozen ISI-linked operatives have reportedly been detained across India in recent months as part of this crackdown.
Government Response and Vigilance Appeal
Top security officials have praised the vigilance and coordination of Delhi Police and intelligence units in averting a potentially major security threat. The Ministry of Home Affairs has instructed all states to step up surveillance on suspected foreign operatives and to enhance scrutiny at borders and immigration checkpoints.
This development serves as a stark reminder of the persistent threats posed by espionage networks and the need for constant vigilance. Authorities urge citizens to report suspicious activities and support national security efforts as India continues to combat covert threats from hostile foreign entities.
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