JNS: In a major breakthrough, the Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) has arrested a businessman from Moradabad, identified as Shehzad, for allegedly spying for Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI). Officials claim that Shehzad was passing on sensitive national security information to ISI handlers.
According to the ATS, Shehzad had travelled to Pakistan several times under the guise of business trips. He is also suspected of smuggling items such as cosmetics, clothing, and spices across the border. His wife, Raziya, confirmed his visits to Lahore, stating they were intended for fabric procurement for his textile business.
Charges Filed Under Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita
A formal case has been registered against Shehzad at the ATS police station in Lucknow under Sections 148 and 152 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. Authorities allege he had longstanding ties with ISI agents and remained in regular contact with them.
YouTuber Jyoti Malhotra Also Arrested
Earlier a travel vlogger Jyoti Malhotra, known online as Travel with Jo, has also been taken into custody for alleged espionage activities. With a subscriber base of nearly 4 lakh, Malhotra was arrested from Hisar for reportedly sharing classified military information with Pakistani operatives.
Suspicious Travel Pattern Linked to Kashmir and Pakistan
Authorities noted that Malhotra made two trips to Pakistan in 2023, with her visits to Jammu and Kashmir often preceding her cross-border travels. Her arrest came shortly after the Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed over 25 civilian lives.
Puri YouTuber Questioned Over Links to Malhotra
Further expanding the scope of the investigation, the Intelligence Bureau (IB) and Puri Police questioned YouTuber Priyanka Senapati over her association with Malhotra. Senapati, who had accompanied Malhotra during her September 2024 visit to Puri, claimed their relationship was strictly professional and centered around content creation.
Ongoing Investigation
Puri Superintendent of Police Vinit Agrawal confirmed that the probe is ongoing. Authorities are exploring the possibility of a broader espionage network operating through digital influencers and business channels across northern India.
