Rajasthan Government Employee Detained for Alleged Espionage for Pakistan
A Rajasthan government employee, Shakur Khan from Jaisalmer, has been detained on suspicion of espionage for Pakistan. Intelligence agencies reportedly found suspicious Pakistan-linked phone numbers on his device, leading to his apprehension. This incident highlights ongoing counter-espionage efforts by Indian authorities to safeguard national security interests, particularly in border states. The investigation will focus on the nature and extent of any information allegedly shared with foreign entities.
Unpacked:
Authorities found several suspicious Pakistan-linked phone numbers on Shakur Khan's device, which he failed to explain. He also admitted to visiting Pakistan at least seven times in recent years. These findings led intelligence agencies to detain him for questioning on suspicion of espionage.
Shakur Khan worked as a personal assistant to Saleh Mohammad, a former Congress minister in Rajasthan. Both men are from neighboring villages. However, as of now, Saleh Mohammad has not been linked to the espionage case in any capacity.
So far, officials have not discovered any military-related videos or classified content on Shakur Khan's phone. However, investigators suspect that some posts may have been deleted, and his financial records and communications are being further scrutinized.
Indian authorities have intensified counter-espionage efforts, particularly in border states such as Rajasthan. Joint teams from intelligence agencies and local police monitor suspicious activities, conduct surveillance, and investigate potential links to foreign intelligence, focusing on individuals with cross-border contacts or unexplained travel histories.