NIA Raids 15 Locations Across 8 States in Pakistan-Linked Espionage Case
Anti-terror crackdown targets suspected espionage network with links to Pakistan’s intelligence operatives
New Delhi, June 1, 2025: In a significant counter-espionage operation, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Saturday conducted simultaneous raids at 15 locations across eight Indian states, targeting individuals allegedly connected to a Pakistan-backed espionage network. The case is linked to a broader terror conspiracy believed to be coordinated by Pakistan Intelligence Operatives (PIOs) to compromise India’s national security.
The states where the searches were conducted include Delhi, Maharashtra (Mumbai), Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, Assam, and West Bengal. According to an official statement, several electronic gadgets, financial documents, and sensitive materials were seized during the operations.
Espionage Case Tied to Arrest of CRPF Jawan
The NIA’s action stems from an FIR filed on May 20, 2025 (RC-12/2025/NIA/DLI), in connection with the arrest of a Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) jawan, Moti Ram Jat, accused of leaking classified information to Pakistan’s intelligence since 2023.
“The accused was actively involved in espionage and received funds through various domestic conduits in exchange for classified national security information,” said an NIA spokesperson.
Moti Ram was arrested in Delhi on May 26 and remains in NIA custody until June 6, as ordered by the Special Court at Patiala House.
Legal Framework of the Investigation
The ongoing investigation is being pursued under multiple stringent legal provisions, including:
- Section 61(2), 147, and 148 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023
- Sections 3 and 5 of the Official Secrets Act, 1923
- Section 18 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), 1967
These sections pertain to criminal conspiracy, waging war against the Government of India, espionage, and abetting terrorism, signaling the gravity of the charges being pursued by the agency.
Pakistan’s Espionage Footprint in India
The NIA suspects the busted network to be part of a larger espionage operation directed by Pakistan-based handlers, with financial support being routed through hidden and unregulated channels within India. The individuals raided are believed to have served as intermediaries or conduits for transferring sensitive information and facilitating funds for illegal intelligence-gathering efforts.
Sources in the security establishment indicate that the seized materials are currently being digitally forensically examined to trace the flow of information, funding links, and potential foreign handlers.
States Under the Scanner: Locations and Scope of Raids
The wide geographical range of the operation points to a well-organized and decentralized spy ring, with urban hubs like Delhi and Mumbai as suspected command nodes, and peripheral locations serving support roles.
States involved in Saturday’s raids:
- Delhi
- Maharashtra (Mumbai)
- Haryana
- Uttar Pradesh
- Rajasthan
- Chhattisgarh
- Assam
- West Bengal
“We are analyzing multiple layers of evidence to establish the espionage route, identify financial sources, and disrupt sleeper networks,” said an NIA official familiar with the operation.
Political and Security Ramifications
The high-profile arrests and subsequent raids come at a time when India is under increased pressure to counter hybrid threats and foreign intelligence interference. The arrest of a CRPF personnel adds a deeply concerning layer, highlighting insider threats within India’s security forces.
National security analysts note that such cases reflect a growing need for cyber-vigilance, counter-intelligence training, and internal vetting mechanisms for personnel handling sensitive information.