Lucknow. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has filed a chargesheet against 13 accused in an alleged espionage network linked to Pakistan. According to the agency, the accused were allegedly involved in a conspiracy to install solar-powered surveillance cameras at sensitive locations and railway premises in India, provide live access to suspected terrorists and handlers based in Pakistan, and share sensitive information with them. The chargesheet has been filed before a special anti-terror court in Lucknow under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) and other relevant legal provisions.
The case came to light after an FIR was registered at the Kaushambi police station under the Ghaziabad Commissionerate on March 14, 2026. Based on the initial findings and evidence gathered during the investigation, the case was subsequently taken up by the NIA. During its probe, the agency examined the alleged network’s activities, links between the accused, surveillance equipment installed at sensitive locations and their alleged communication with suspected handlers operating from outside India.
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According to the investigating agency, the alleged network was not limited to routine surveillance. The accused allegedly entered sensitive locations without authorization and carried out activities intended to compromise India’s sovereignty, unity and integrity. The alleged operation involved monitoring sensitive sites, recording activities taking place there and transmitting related information to elements linked to an enemy country.
Surveillance of Sensitive Locations Through Solar-Powered Cameras
The NIA has alleged that the accused illegally accessed certain sensitive locations and railway stations before installing solar-powered surveillance cameras. These cameras were allegedly intended to facilitate continuous monitoring of locations where important security-related activities were taking place. Investigators are also examining the number of locations where such equipment was allegedly installed and the period for which they remained operational.
The investigation has further indicated that photographs and videos captured through the cameras were allegedly transmitted to suspected handlers based in Pakistan. The accused allegedly shared geotagged photographs, videos and precise GPS coordinates of sensitive locations. According to the agency, such information could have enabled individuals operating from Pakistan to obtain detailed information about the physical locations and activities being monitored.
Alleged Supply of Indian SIM Cards
The NIA has also alleged that members of the network helped Pakistan-linked elements obtain and use Indian SIM cards for carrying out unlawful activities. Investigators are examining how the SIM cards were procured, who allegedly used them and which telephone numbers, digital accounts or individuals were contacted through them.
The accused named in the chargesheet include Praveen, Raj Valmiki, Shiva Valmiki, Hrithik Gangwar, Sameer alias Shooter, Durgesh Nishad, Naushad, Gagan Kumar, Vivek, Shivraj, Meera Thakur and Shen Iram alias Mehak. The case materials indicate that the chargesheet has been filed against 13 accused.
The investigation involving five minors allegedly linked to the case is also being pursued separately under the applicable juvenile justice framework. A detailed investigation report concerning them had already been submitted before the Juvenile Justice Board in Ghaziabad on May 18.
The NIA is now examining the alleged communication network between the accused, digital devices, mobile phones, SIM cards, financial transactions and technical evidence associated with the surveillance cameras. Investigators are also seeking to establish how sensitive information was allegedly transmitted to suspected handlers based in Pakistan and who was coordinating the network.
A key focus of the investigation is the extent of the alleged espionage operation and whether other individuals or locations were involved. Investigators are expected to analyse digital and financial records to establish the movement of information and money and identify any additional links in the network.
According to the agency’s allegations, the network was allegedly organised to monitor sensitive locations and transmit information outside India in a coordinated manner. However, the allegations contained in the chargesheet remain subject to judicial scrutiny, and the guilt of the accused will be determined only through the legal process and examination of evidence before the court.
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About the author — Suvedita Nath is a science student with a growing interest in cybercrime and digital safety. She writes on online activity, cyber threats, and technology-driven risks. Her work focuses on clarity, accuracy, and public awareness.
