The Punjab Police’s Counter-Intelligence in Jalandhar made a significant breakthrough by uncovering a spy ring involved in installing CCTV cameras to monitor Army movements along the border. The investigation revealed that live footage from these cameras in sensitive areas was being monitored by handlers in Pakistan through mobile apps. Authorities seized CCTV cameras, solar panels, and SIM cards, arresting one suspect in connection with the case.
This discovery is a setback to organized espionage activities in Punjab, occurring during the state’s initiative to become crime-free under Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann. Punjab DGP Gaurav Yadav announced the dismantling of an ISI-backed espionage ring, capturing a key operative named Sukhwinder Singh alias Sukha from Ferozepur. The seized equipment, including solar-powered CCTV devices with 4G connectivity, was of Chinese origin and was being installed at various locations to monitor sensitive sites linked to the Army.
The accused and his associates were responsible for installing these cameras to transmit live footage to handlers in Pakistan. An FIR has been filed at the State Special Operations Cell in Amritsar, with ongoing investigations to uncover further links and identify other members of the spy network. The Punjab Police is dedicated to eradicating espionage networks to maintain peace and public safety in the state.
The DGP highlighted that the accused not only set up the CCTV systems but also facilitated remote access for handlers across the border through mobile apps. Interrogations are ongoing to determine how the accused established cross-border connections and to identify additional individuals involved in the espionage network. A case has been registered at the SSOC in Amritsar under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).
