Jasbir Singh, YouTuber linked to Pak-backed spy network, tried erasing digital trail after Jyoti Malhotra’s arrest

Investigations revealed that Jasbir Singh had travelled to Pakistan thrice, in 2020, 2021 and 2024.

The Punjab Police’s State Special Operations Cell (SSOC) in Mohali has busted a terror-linked espionage network allegedly operating with Pakistani support, with key operatives including a YouTuber from Rupnagar and Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs) suspected of working for Pakistan’s intelligence.

According to Punjab DGP Gaurav Yadav, the network's primary Indian node is Jasbir Singh, a resident of Mahlan village in Rupnagar district, who operates a YouTube channel named Jaan Mahal. Singh was reportedly in close contact with multiple PIOs, including Shakir alias Jutt Randhawa and Jyoti Malhotra, the latter being a Haryana-based YouTuber previously arrested for espionage.

Acting swiftly on actionable intelligence, State Special Operations Cell (#SSOC), Mohali has unearthed a critical espionage network linked to Jasbir Singh, a resident of Village Mahlan, #Rupnagar.Jasbir Singh, who operates a #YouTube channel called Jaan Mahal, has been found

DGP Punjab Police (@DGPPunjabPolice) June 4, 2025

“Acting on actionable intelligence, SSOC Mohali has unearthed a critical espionage network,” Yadav posted on X, adding that Singh had also maintained communication with Ehsan-ur-Rahim alias Danish, a Pakistani national and an expelled official from the Pakistan High Commission.

Travel to Pakistan, meet with Pakistan army officials

Investigations revealed that Jasbir Singh had travelled to Pakistan thrice, in 2020, 2021 and 2024. He also reportedly attended the Pakistan National Day event in Delhi on the invitation of Danish, where he interacted with Pakistani Army personnel and vloggers.

Seized electronic devices from Singh are undergoing forensic analysis. Officials say the devices contained several Pakistan-based numbers and digital traces that point to a larger, coordinated espionage operation.

Attempt to erase digital trail

After the arrest of Jyoti Malhotra, Singh allegedly attempted to delete evidence of his communications with other members of the network. However, investigators were able to retrieve crucial data linking him to suspected operatives.

A formal FIR has been registered at SSOC, Mohali. The Punjab Police say the investigation is now focused on dismantling the broader espionage and terror support infrastructure and identifying additional collaborators.

“Punjab Police remains unwavering in its commitment to national security and will neutralise all threats posed by anti-national elements,” DGP Yadav said.