Rajasthan Police have made a significant breakthrough by dismantling a suspected espionage network connected to a Pakistan-based terrorist. The arrest of a 20-year-old youth named Akashdeep revealed his involvement in conducting reconnaissance activities across various states and sharing sensitive videos with the terrorist, Shahzad Bhatti. Akashdeep, a resident of Chak Kera, was apprehended for maintaining communication with Bhatti through social media platforms.
According to District Superintendent of Police Hari Shankar, the police, due to the district’s proximity to the international border, closely monitor intelligence inputs. Acting on specific information about suspicious activities, an investigation was launched, uncovering Akashdeep’s regular contact with Pakistani numbers via Instagram and WhatsApp, including voice chats. The accused confessed during interrogation that he had been surveying key locations in Punjab, Rajasthan, Delhi, Chandigarh, and Ambala on Bhatti’s instructions.
The accused reportedly filmed crowded and strategically important areas, sending these videos to Pakistan through WhatsApp, along with information on access routes. Police confiscated Akashdeep’s mobile phone and SIM card, revealing conversations with multiple suspicious Pakistan-based contacts. Additionally, investigators discovered an AI-edited photo where Akashdeep had digitally inserted himself beside the terrorist, allegedly to intimidate locals.
Describing Akashdeep as having a criminal disposition, Station House Officer Gurmel Singh highlighted his habit of threatening villagers by claiming associations with terrorists. Authorities emphasized that the accused’s actions posed a severe threat to national security, sovereignty, and integrity, leading to swift intervention. A case has been filed under relevant provisions, and further inquiries are ongoing to uncover the broader network.
The recent arrest is part of a series of crackdowns on similar activities. Earlier in March, individuals linked to Shahzad Bhatti were apprehended in Ambala, Haryana, leading to the recovery of explosives and the prevention of a major attack. More recently, on March 24, another associate was captured in Hanumangarh. Police suspect that the terrorist handler is managing an India-based network through social media and digital platforms, indicating potential further arrests as the investigation progresses.
