Ghaziabad/New Delhi, India — April 15, 2026
NIA to Probe Major Espionage Network Linked to Foreign Funding
In a significant national security development, India’s premier counter-terror agency, the National Investigation Agency, is set to take over the investigation into a large espionage network uncovered in Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh.
The case, initially registered at the Kaushambi Police Station, revealed extensive foreign funding and alleged links to hostile intelligence operations. The probe was earlier conducted jointly by a Special Investigation Team (SIT), the Intelligence Bureau, and other security agencies.
₹1.27 Crore Foreign Funding Traced Across 53 Bank Accounts
Investigators uncovered ₹1.27 crore (approx. $150,000) routed through 53 bank accounts linked to the suspected espionage network.
- Accounts were traced across Punjab, West Bengal, and Bihar
- The largest transaction flow was identified in Bhagalpur, Bihar
- Funds are suspected to have originated from foreign sources
Authorities are continuing to examine the money trail and financial channels used to facilitate these transactions.
ISI-Linked Network With International Connections
The investigation indicates that the network had alleged links to Inter-Services Intelligence, with connections extending to multiple countries, including:
- Pakistan
- United Kingdom
- Malaysia
- Saudi Arabia
Officials say the cross-border links significantly increase the seriousness of the case.
Sensitive Railway Footage Allegedly Shared Abroad
One of the most alarming findings involves the transfer of sensitive video footage. Investigators found that:
- Nearly 8 hours of train movement footage from Sonipat railway station was recorded
- The footage was allegedly transmitted to foreign handlers
Experts have verified the recordings, raising concerns over potential misuse of critical infrastructure data.
29 Suspects Detained, Including Minors
So far, authorities have detained 29 suspects from Ghaziabad and Hapur districts.
- Six of the accused are minors
- Key arrests began on March 14, including individuals identified as Suhail Malik and Sane Iram
- Multiple follow-up arrests were made between March 20 and March 24 across Delhi, Shamli, and Kaushambi
Investigators are continuing to question suspects and analyze seized devices.
Social Media Used for Recruitment and Coordination
The probe revealed that the network leveraged social media platforms to recruit members.
A key accused, identified as Sameer alias “Shooter,” allegedly posted images and videos with weapons in 2023, which attracted attention from other suspects. They were later added to encrypted messaging groups and assigned tasks by a handler reportedly operating from abroad.
Network Active for Two Years, Larger Plot Suspected
Security agencies believe the espionage ring had been active for nearly two years, with a broader objective:
- Collect intelligence on sensitive locations
- Build a network of operatives within India
- Prepare groundwork for potential future operations
Authorities have recovered multiple mobile phones containing suspicious chats, images, and videos, which are now under forensic examination.
NIA Steps In as Probe Expands
Following the scale and gravity of the case, the National Investigation Agency has initiated formal procedures to take over the investigation. Communication has been sent to local police authorities to transfer the case.
Officials confirmed that further action will depend on ongoing forensic analysis, financial tracking, and interrogation findings.
Key Takeaways
- ₹1.27 crore foreign funding traced across 53 accounts
- Links to international networks spanning four countries
- Sensitive railway footage allegedly shared abroad
- 29 suspects detained, including minors
- NIA to lead expanded national security probe
