A civilian employee at an Indian Air Force station has been arrested for allegedly passing sensitive military information to Pakistani handlers, in a case that investigators say has exposed a wider espionage network operating across India.
The arrest was carried out by Rajasthan Intelligence following a months-long investigation that began earlier this year. Officials believe the case could have serious implications for national security, given the nature of the information allegedly shared.
Probe began with earlier arrest
According to Prafull Kumar, Additional Director General of Police (Intelligence), the investigation traces back to January 2026, when Jhabara Ram, a resident of Jaisalmer, was taken into custody.
During interrogation, Ram reportedly disclosed links to another individual who was in regular contact with Pakistani intelligence agencies. This lead eventually pointed investigators towards the main accused, Sumit Kumar.
Accused posted at Assam air base
The accused, Sumit Kumar (36), hails from Prayagraj and was employed as a Multi-Tasking Staff member at Air Force Station Chabua in Assam’s Dibrugarh district.
Investigators allege that Kumar used his position to access confidential information related to the Indian Air Force and passed it on to Pakistani handlers. The information was reportedly shared through social media platforms over a sustained period.
Joint operation leads to arrest
In a coordinated effort, Rajasthan Intelligence and Air Force Intelligence detained Kumar from Chabua and brought him to Jaipur for questioning.
Officials said that the accused had been in contact with Pakistani intelligence operatives since 2023 and had been sharing sensitive information in exchange for monetary benefits.
Sensitive defence data compromised
During interrogation, investigators found that Kumar allegedly shared critical details about key defence installations, including Air Force Station Chabua and Air Force Station Nal.
The leaked information reportedly included locations of fighter aircraft, missile systems, and confidential data about Air Force personnel and officers. Authorities described the breach as serious and potentially damaging to national security.
Further, Kumar is said to have assisted Pakistani handlers in creating social media accounts using mobile numbers registered in his name, enabling covert communication channels.
Case registered under Official Secrets Act
A case has been registered at a special police station in Jaipur under provisions of the Official Secrets Act, 1923 and the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023.
The accused was formally arrested on March 22, and further interrogation is underway to uncover the full extent of the network and identify other possible operatives.
Larger espionage network suspected
Officials believe the case is part of a broader Pakistan-backed espionage network operating across multiple locations in India. Investigators are analysing digital evidence, financial transactions, and communication records to trace additional links.
Security agencies are also reviewing protocols at sensitive installations to prevent similar breaches in the future.
Conclusion
The arrest of the IAF staffer has raised serious concerns about internal security and the risks posed by espionage networks. As the investigation progresses, authorities are expected to tighten surveillance and strengthen safeguards to protect sensitive defence information.