Arunachal Espionage Case: Two More Arrested from J&K, Total Accused Rises to Five
The Arunachal Pradesh Police have arrested two more individuals from Jammu and Kashmir’s Kupwara district in a widening espionage case that has raised serious security...
The Arunachal Pradesh Police have arrested two more individuals from Jammu and Kashmir’s Kupwara district in a widening espionage case that has raised serious security concerns across the state, senior officials confirmed on Monday.
The newly arrested accused have been identified as Aijaz Ahmed Bhat and Bashir Ahmad Ganai, both residents of Kupwara. With their arrest, the total number of people held in the case has increased to five.
Arrests Made Outside State, Accused Brought to Arunachal
Inspector General of Police (Law and Order) Chukhu Apa, addressing a press briefing in Itanagar, said the arrests were carried out on December 18. The two men were apprehended in Jammu and Kashmir and have since been brought to Arunachal Pradesh, where they are currently in police custody.
According to the police, the accused were allegedly involved in collecting sensitive and strategic information from multiple locations across Arunachal Pradesh and passing it on to handlers based in Pakistan.
Earlier Arrests Point to a Wider Network
The investigation began on November 21, when Itanagar police arrested Nazir Ahmad Malik and Sabir Ahmed Mir, both from Kupwara district, following what officials described as credible intelligence inputs about a suspected spy network operating in the state.
Nazir was initially detained from Ganga village, and information obtained during his questioning led to the arrest of Sabir Ahmed Mir from Abotani Colony later the same day. Subsequently, a third accused, Shabir Ahmed Khan, was arrested from Itanagar. Khan is also a native of Kupwara, Jammu and Kashmir.
“These arrests confirm that the network had operatives both inside Arunachal Pradesh and outside the state,” IGP Apa said.
Modus Operandi: Moving as Traders
Police officials revealed that the accused posed as blanket sellers, travelling extensively across different districts of Arunachal Pradesh. This allowed them to move freely and gather information without raising suspicion.
“We were acting on credible intelligence about a spy ring operating from Arunachal Pradesh. Under the leadership of Itanagar Superintendent of Police Jummar Basar, the team worked meticulously to track the suspects,” Apa said. “So far, two arrests have been made from Kupwara and three from different locations within the Itanagar Capital Region.”
More Arrests Possible
The police have not ruled out further arrests. According to IGP Apa, interrogation of the accused is ongoing, and digital and forensic evidence is still being analysed.
“We are awaiting forensic reports and examining all available evidence. Based on the findings, further action will be taken in the coming days,” he said.
Police Warn Against Lax Tenant Verification
The case has also prompted authorities to raise alarms over lax tenant verification practices in the state. Apa urged residents to strictly follow police verification procedures before renting out property or allowing outsiders to stay in their homes.
“For the safety of the state and its people, police verification of tenants is essential. Do not allow anyone to stay in your house or property without proper verification,” he appealed.
Security Implications
Arunachal Pradesh shares a long and sensitive international border, making internal security a critical concern. Officials say the case highlights the risks posed by covert networks exploiting mobility, informal trade, and gaps in local vigilance.
The investigation continues as authorities work to determine the full extent of the alleged espionage operation and whether more individuals were involved.