Rajasthan Intelligence has uncovered a serious espionage case with the arrest of a young man from the Pokaran region of Jaisalmer district on charges of spying for Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI). The accused is alleged to have shared sensitive and strategic information related to the Indian Army with handlers across the border. The arrest is being seen as a significant breakthrough in ongoing efforts to dismantle espionage networks operating in border districts of western Rajasthan.
The arrested accused has been identified as Jhabraram (28), son of Bhanaram, a resident of Nedan village in Pokaran tehsil of Jaisalmer district. Preliminary investigations indicate that he came into contact with ISI handlers through social media platforms. Over time, investigators believe, he was honey-trapped and lured with financial incentives, eventually agreeing to collect and pass on confidential information to Pakistani operatives.
Intelligence sources said the accused had been under surveillance for some time due to his suspicious digital footprint. His online behaviour, social media interactions, phone calls and unexplained contacts had raised red flags. Based on these inputs, agencies developed actionable intelligence and detained him for questioning. He was subsequently brought to a central interrogation facility in Jaipur, where multiple state and central intelligence agencies questioned him jointly.
Certified Cyber Crime Investigator Course Launched by Centre for Police Technology
During interrogation, Jhabraram’s mobile phone and other digital devices were seized and subjected to detailed forensic examination. The technical analysis revealed that he was in regular touch with ISI handlers and was sharing information related to Indian Army deployment, movement patterns and activities in border areas. Investigators have described the leaked material as being of strategic value, with the potential to seriously compromise national security if misused.
The probe further revealed that the accused had shared the one-time password (OTP) of a SIM card registered in his own name with Pakistani handlers. This allowed them to download and operate a WhatsApp account remotely while he remained in India. Through this account, sensitive information was allegedly transmitted across the border. Intelligence officials believe this method reflects a dangerous and evolving pattern of digital espionage, making detection more challenging.
Based on digital evidence, chat records and transaction details, agencies concluded that the accused was knowingly and willingly cooperating with a foreign intelligence network. Investigators also suspect that he may not have been acting alone. During questioning, several leads emerged pointing towards a wider contact network. Authorities are now examining his digital links and communication history to identify any additional individuals who may be involved or to determine whether the activity was part of a larger conspiracy.
Rajasthan Intelligence formally arrested the accused on January 30 and registered a case against him under the Official Secrets Act, 1923. He is currently in judicial custody, and investigators are continuing to question him to establish the full extent of the information leaked, the duration of his involvement and the identities of his handlers. Agencies are also assessing whether any other sensitive installations or operations may have been compromised.
The case has surfaced at a time when security agencies are already on high alert in Rajasthan’s border districts, particularly around Republic Day. Enhanced surveillance had been put in place to monitor suspicious movements and communications in sensitive areas. Officials say the arrest underscores growing concerns over the use of social media and digital platforms by foreign intelligence agencies to target vulnerable individuals, especially youth, for espionage activities.
Intelligence agencies have issued a fresh appeal to the public, urging citizens to remain cautious while interacting with unknown profiles on social media. They have warned against responding to suspicious messages, unsolicited requests or offers involving money or personal relationships. Any unusual contact or activity, officials said, should be immediately reported to security agencies.
Authorities have described the arrest as a strong warning to espionage networks operating along the border and a reminder of the critical importance of vigilance in safeguarding national security.
About the author – Ayesha Aayat is a law student and contributor covering cybercrime, online frauds, and digital safety concerns. Her writing aims to raise awareness about evolving cyber threats and legal responses.
