New Delhi: The Delhi Police Special Cell has arrested a 25-year-old man and his 21-year-old wife for allegedly working with a Pakistan-backed espionage network since 2024 and helping intelligence operatives obtain sensitive information about India.
The accused, identified as Sahil and Sameera, were allegedly in contact with Pakistan-based handlers who operated through social media and encrypted communication platforms. Police said the investigation uncovered links between Delhi, Karachi and Islamabad.
Couple allegedly sent Indian SIM cards to Pakistan
According to police, Sahil and Sameera obtained eight Indian SIM cards and sent them to Pakistan through Dubai between 2024 and 2025. The couple was allegedly paid Rs 30,000 for the cards.
Police said the numbers were subsequently used to activate WhatsApp accounts in Pakistan. Intelligence operatives allegedly used the accounts to contact people in India, enter Indian WhatsApp groups and seek sensitive information.
Police allege military areas were targeted
Investigators allege that Sahil was tasked with conducting reconnaissance of cantonment areas in different parts of India and recruiting people for espionage and field operations.
Police also claim that he provided information concerning Army personnel facing court-martial proceedings before a tribunal.
According to investigators, the alleged network was therefore seeking information connected to Indian defence establishments and military activities.
Instagram allegedly opened the door
Police said Sahil first came into contact with a Pakistani agent through Instagram in 2024. The contact was allegedly facilitated by Sameera, whom Sahil had met in 2022 before they married.
The Pakistani contact allegedly introduced the couple to an intelligence operative who offered financial incentives for their involvement.
The Special Cell said forensic examination of Sahil’s mobile phone revealed conversations with Pakistani agents. Investigators subsequently arrested Sameera, whose phone allegedly contained WhatsApp conversations involving Sahil and Pakistan-based handlers.
Police recover two phones
Two mobile phones were recovered from the couple, police said. The devices allegedly contained conversations with Pakistani intelligence operatives and information about contacts and activities in India.
Sahil, who holds a BA degree from IGNOU, had worked with a lawyer and was planning to pursue an LLB. Sameera completed Class 12 before obtaining a BA through correspondence and was working at a call centre in Noida before her arrest.
Police said the investigation began with information about alleged logistical support being provided to terrorist organisations, overground workers and sleeper cells.
The Special Cell said the arrests have provided important leads into the alleged Pakistan-based intelligence network and its contacts in India. Further investigation is under way.