Punjab: A detailed report by Punjab Police has claimed that security agencies launched a nationwide crackdown on alleged espionage networks linked to Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) following “Operation Sindoor.” According to the report, a total of 457 suspected operatives have been arrested across 17 Indian states and Union Territories so far.

The report states that after Operation Sindoor, Pakistan-based intelligence networks allegedly intensified efforts to gather sensitive military and strategic information from India.

Social Media, Honey Traps and Hawala Channels Used for Recruitment

Investigating agencies allege that suspected operatives were recruited through social media platforms, honey-trap tactics, and financial incentives. According to officials, recruits were allegedly assigned tasks related to collecting information on military movement, border deployment, and strategic installations.

The report further claims that payments were routed through hawala networks and encrypted messaging applications to avoid detection by law enforcement agencies.

Attempt to Install CCTV Near Sensitive Military Areas

Security agencies also reportedly uncovered attempts by some suspects to install solar-powered CCTV cameras near military and police establishments. Officials believe such surveillance systems could have been used to monitor sensitive activities and collect strategic data.

Authorities claim the activities were detected in time, preventing potential security risks.

Punjab Intelligence Inputs Played Key Role

Gaurav Yadav stated that intelligence gathered by Punjab Police was shared with central agencies and multiple state police departments. Based on these inputs, officials reportedly identified 437 suspects during 2025 and 17 more by March 2026.

According to the report, Punjab continues to remain a major target for alleged ISI-backed espionage activity, prompting state police to adopt aggressive counter-intelligence measures.

Arrests Made Across Multiple States

Several arrests were reportedly carried out in different states during the operation. Among those named in the report are YouTuber Jyoti Rani from Hisar, Nouman Ilahi from Kairana in Uttar Pradesh, Devender Singh from Kaithal in Haryana, and Abhishek Bhardwaj from Kangra in Himachal Pradesh.

In Punjab, nine individuals were reportedly arrested in six separate cases. The report also mentions the names of Gagandeep Singh from Tarn Taran and YouTuber Jasbir Singh from Rupnagar. Investigators claim sensitive documents were recovered during the operation.

China Acknowledges Technical Assistance to Pakistan

In a separate development, China has reportedly acknowledged providing technical assistance to Pakistan during last year’s four-day India-Pakistan conflict.

According to an interview aired by China Central Television, engineer Zhang Heng from Aviation Industry Corporation of China confirmed that technical support was extended to Pakistan.

Reports further stated that the Pakistani Air Force’s Chengdu J-10 fighter aircraft were developed by a subsidiary linked to AVIC. The revelation has triggered fresh debate over the evolving India-China-Pakistan security equation and regional strategic concerns.