Espionage Arrest Shakes Jaisalmer
In a major counter-intelligence operation, the CID (Intelligence) unit of Rajasthan Police arrested a 47-year-old man on charges of espionage in Jaisalmer district. The accused, identified as Hanif Khan, a resident of Basanpeer Jooni village in Jaisalmer, has been accused of sharing confidential military information with Pakistan’s intelligence agency, Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), in return for financial benefits.
The arrest highlights the persistent threat of cross-border intelligence networks exploiting local connections to extract sensitive information from border districts like Jaisalmer, which has long been under surveillance for such activities.
Continuous Surveillance Exposes Khan’s Activities
According to Dr. Vishnukant, Inspector General of CID Intelligence, the department had been monitoring suspected espionage activities across Rajasthan for several months. During the surveillance, Khan’s behavior raised red flags, prompting closer scrutiny. Investigators soon discovered that Khan was allegedly in constant communication with Pakistani handlers through social media platforms.
Technical monitoring and ground verification confirmed Khan’s suspicious links. Investigators found that he had easy access to sensitive border areas, which made him a potential target for Pakistani agencies looking for inside information.
Sharing Information During Army Operations
During interrogation, police officials revealed that Khan was in touch with a Pakistani handler during Operation Sindoor, a military exercise in the region. He allegedly shared classified details regarding Army movements, military installations, and deployment strategies.
Authorities suspect that such leaks could have compromised operational secrecy. Officials emphasized that even seemingly minor information can be pieced together by hostile agencies to map India’s military strategies.
“Khan was passing critical intelligence that could have been detrimental to national security. His contacts were established for monetary gain, and he betrayed the trust of his country,” said an investigating officer.
Evidence Confirms Espionage
The breakthrough came when technical analysis of Khan’s mobile phone confirmed repeated exchanges of sensitive military data. Digital trails, including chat logs, location records, and financial transactions, provided strong evidence of his involvement with ISI operatives.
Based on the findings, a case was registered under the Official Secrets Act, 1923, and Khan was formally placed under arrest. Police stated that additional digital forensics are underway to determine the full extent of the espionage network and whether Khan was working alone or as part of a larger group.
Fourth Espionage Case In Jaisalmer This Year
Officials noted that Khan’s arrest is the fourth espionage-related case reported in Jaisalmer this year, underlining the vulnerability of border regions to foreign intelligence influence. Security agencies have repeatedly warned about attempts by Pakistan to recruit locals near the border, often using financial inducements or online manipulation through social media.
Intelligence units are now investigating whether Khan’s network extends beyond Jaisalmer, and whether more individuals have been compromised. Authorities have also heightened surveillance in vulnerable villages located close to the Indo-Pak border.
Growing Concerns About Espionage In Border States
Rajasthan, due to its long and porous border with Pakistan, has historically been a hotspot for espionage activities. Locals, particularly those with access to military zones or knowledge of troop movements, are often targeted by foreign agencies.
Cyber experts warn that social media has made it easier for intelligence operatives to recruit informants under false identities, posing as employers, traders, or even sympathizers. In Khan’s case, authorities revealed that his initial contact was established through an online platform, which eventually developed into regular information-sharing for money.
Strong Message From Authorities
Law enforcement agencies have stressed that such betrayals will not be tolerated and that anyone engaging in espionage will face the strictest punishment under law. Authorities also appealed to locals living in border areas to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity immediately.
“This case once again highlights the need for awareness among citizens living near border zones. National security is a collective responsibility, and such actions put the entire country at risk,” said IG Vishnukant.
As investigations continue, Khan remains in custody, and further arrests are not being ruled out.
