Delhi Couple Arrested for ISI Espionage, Sent SIM Cards to Pakistan

In a significant national security development, the Delhi Police Special Cell has apprehended a couple, identified as Md Sahil (25) and Sameera (21), for their alleged involvement in an espionage network backed by Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI). The couple is accused of working with Pakistan-based intelligence operatives since 2024, providing crucial logistical support and facilitating the transfer of sensitive information. According to the police, Sahil and Sameera procured Indian SIM cards and sent them to Pakistan via Dubai between 2024 and 2025. They allegedly sent a total of eight SIM cards and received approximately Rs 30,000 in return from their Pakistani handlers. These SIM cards were subsequently used by ISI operatives to activate WhatsApp accounts and gain access to Indian WhatsApp groups. The operatives allegedly leveraged these access points to collect sensitive information pertaining to India's defence and security apparatus. Furthermore, the couple was reportedly tasked with recruiting individuals for reconnaissance of cantonment areas across various locations in India. Sahil was also allegedly asked to gather details of Indian Army personnel facing court-martial proceedings. The investigation began after the Special Cell received intelligence about an ISI-backed espionage network operating in the Delhi-NCR region. Forensic analysis of Sahil's mobile phone revealed incriminating conversations with Pakistani intelligence operatives, which led to his arrest. Subsequently, Sameera was also apprehended for her role in the alleged conspiracy. Investigative sources suggest that the couple came into contact with Pakistani agents through social media platforms, specifically Instagram, in 2024. Sahil was initially introduced to a Pakistani agent through Sameera, whom he later married. This contact eventually led them to a Pakistani intelligence operative who cultivated them for their services in exchange for financial incentives. The couple's alleged activities highlight a modus operandi involving the use of Indian communication infrastructure, such as SIM cards and WhatsApp, to facilitate espionage and gather intelligence on Indian targets. The recovery of two mobile phones from the accused has provided crucial evidence, including chats and other incriminating conversations with their handlers. The investigation is ongoing, with authorities working to identify other potential members of the network and determine the full extent of the information that may have been compromised. This case underscores the persistent threat posed by foreign intelligence agencies and their methods of recruitment and information gathering within India. The arrests of Md Sahil and Sameera come amidst a broader effort by Indian security agencies to dismantle Pakistan-linked espionage networks. Earlier in August 2026, Indian security agencies had conducted a nationwide crackdown, arresting 253 people in connection with the alleged Shahzad Bhatti network, which was also linked to the ISI and was suspected of planning attacks around Independence Day. The methods reportedly used in that operation included the recovery of weapons, grenades, and CCTV equipment used for surveillance, and a social media recruitment pipeline targeting youth. This incident also brings to the forefront the role of social media in radicalization and recruitment by foreign intelligence agencies. The police's findings suggest a systematic approach by ISI handlers to exploit communication channels and exploit individuals for espionage activities. The case is a stark reminder of the need for constant vigilance and robust counter-intelligence measures to safeguard national security.

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