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New Delhi: In a major counter-intelligence operation, the Special Cell of Delhi Police has unearthed an espionage and terror module allegedly backed by Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), arresting 11 operatives linked to the banned outfit Babbar Khalsa International (BKI). Officials said the module was engaged in surveillance of sensitive defence and security installations, raising serious national security concerns.

CCTV Surveillance Network Exposed

Investigations revealed that the accused had installed CCTV cameras at nine locations across the country, including near Army-linked and other sensitive establishments. These were solar-powered devices, strategically placed to avoid detection. The live feed from these cameras was being transmitted in real time to handlers in Pakistan via mobile applications, said Additional Commissioner of Police Pramod Singh Kushwah.

Two-Phase Crackdown

The operation was carried out in two phases:

• First operation: Six accused were arrested (three from Punjab and three from Delhi). Police recovered:
  • 9 surveillance cameras
  • 3 PX5 pistols
  • 1 country-made firearm
  • 24 live cartridges
• Second operation: Acting on inputs from Military Intelligence, five more accused were arrested from Punjab for espionage and reconnaissance activities.

These individuals captured photos and videos of Army and paramilitary installations and shared them with cross-border handlers.

Funding and Modus Operandi

The probe has revealed a well-structured terror-financing and logistics network, involving:

• UPI-based transactions to fund operations
• Money generated through illegal arms and drug smuggling
• Use of fake identity SIM cards to operate surveillance systems and transmit data

The module also had links with gangsters and foreign-based handlers, forming a wider nexus aimed at destabilising security.

Larger Conspiracy and Threat Averted

Officials said the operatives were tasked with:

• Installing surveillance infrastructure
• Conducting reconnaissance of strategic locations
• Facilitating logistics for potential terror strikes

The investigation further uncovered plans to target security establishments using grenades and other weapons. Authorities believe that timely action by the Special Cell has averted a major security threat.

Digital evidence, including images, videos and location data, has been seized and is being analysed to identify further links in the network.

The crackdown highlights the evolving tactics of cross-border terror outfits, increasingly relying on technology, local recruits and hybrid warfare methods to carry out espionage and potential attacks.