The Gujarat Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) have also resorted to the arrest of two individuals in the Goa-Daman region who were allegedly engaged in espionage movements and who had connections with Pakistan in a major security operation. One of the arrested was recognized to be a subedar in the Indian Army, which raises a worrying issue of possible violation of national security.
The ATS sources believe that these arrests are against anti-national activities in Gujarat, which are more widespread. The group has, within the last four months, arrested seven individuals suspected to have been involved in anti-national activities. The recent arrest has also demonstrated a network that is supposed to be involved in spying, intelligence collection and communication with foreign agents, which shows the continued alertness of the Indian security agencies.
Research also discovered that the suspects had close links with Pakistani handlers, where sensitive information is being exchanged, which can affect military and strategic interests. The use of an active army officer in this network has led to an extensive investigation of internal security measures and possible leakage in the defence facilities. The ATS is also interrogating the arrested persons to establish the extent of the spy network and any other allies of anti-national activities.
The Gujarat ATS stressed the fact that these arrests can testify to an improved level of intelligence collection and surveillance that was practiced in the state. Such operations have been pointed out by security experts to have been essential to national security, especially at the coast or other areas near the coastal borders, where the chances of espionage are higher.
The crackdown is also a reminder of the significance of counter-intelligence activities in India, and not necessarily based on external activities, but also the internal weaknesses of the country. By detecting and catching up the people engaging in espionage, the government wants to avoid undermining delicate information into the hands of foreign powers, and to ensure the safeguarding integrity of the defence mechanisms of the nation.
Authorities have been promising that the police are undertaking investigations, and additional arrests may be made in case any other connections or suspects are found. Gujarat ATS is maintaining liaisons with other central and state agencies and enhancing security measures, and also ensuring that all personnel in sensitive positions undergo vigorous vetting and monitoring procedures.
Such an operation sends a very powerful message that anti-national operations and spy operations will not be entertained, and the security forces are determined to protect the sovereignty and strategic interests of India.
