NIA raids 15 locations across 8 states in Pakistan-linked espionage case

NIA

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Saturday carried out a large-scale search operation at 15 locations across eight states as part of its probe into a Pakistan-linked espionage case.

The coordinated searches were conducted at premises associated with individuals suspected of having links to Pakistan Intelligence Operatives (PIOs). The states involved include Delhi, Maharashtra (Mumbai), Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, Assam, and West Bengal.

During the operation, NIA teams seized several electronic devices, sensitive financial documents, and other incriminating materials. These items are currently being examined for leads related to a suspected espionage network operated by Pakistan-based agents, believed to be part of a broader anti-India conspiracy.

According to the agency, those targeted in the searches are suspected of maintaining connections with Pakistani handlers and facilitating financial transactions to support espionage activities within India.

The case—RC-12/2025/NIA/DLI—was registered on May 20, following the arrest of an individual accused of sharing sensitive information with Pakistani operatives since 2023. In return, the accused allegedly received funds via various channels in India in exchange for leaking classified national security data.

The investigation is ongoing, with the case filed under multiple legal provisions, including Sections 61(2), 147, and 148 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023, Sections 3 and 5 of the Official Secrets Act, 1923, and Section 18 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), 1967.