Indian Embassy Employee Arrested for Espionage, Accused of Spying for Pakistan’s ISI

In a shocking development, an Indian national employed at the Indian Embassy in Moscow, identified as Satendra Siwal, has been arrested for allegedly spying for Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI). Siwal, who worked as a security assistant at the embassy, was apprehended by the Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS).

Key Points:

1. Background of Satendra Siwal:

• A resident of Shahmahiuddinpur village in Hapur district, Uttar Pradesh, Satendra Siwal served as the India-Based Security Assistant (IBSA) at the Indian Embassy in Moscow since 2021.
• Initially employed as a Multi-Tasking Staff (MTS), Siwal held the position of Security Assistant in the embassy.

1. Allegations and Investigations:

• The ATS conducted thorough electronic and physical surveillance, revealing Siwal’s involvement in anti-India activities in collaboration with handlers from Pakistan’s ISI.
• Siwal is accused of providing sensitive information about strategic activities of the Ministry of Defence, Ministry of External Affairs, and Indian military establishments in exchange for financial benefits.

1. Arrest and Confession:

• Following the investigations, Satendra Siwal was summoned to the ATS field unit in Meerut for questioning.
• Failing to provide satisfactory answers during interrogation, Siwal eventually confessed to his involvement in the espionage activities.

1. Legal Action:

• An FIR has been filed against Siwal under Section 121A of the Indian Penal Code (waging war against the country) and the Official Secrets Act, 1923.
• The arrest raises concerns about the potential threats posed to India’s internal and external security.

1. MEA’s Response:

• The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has acknowledged Siwal’s arrest and is reportedly collaborating with investigative authorities in the case.

1. Broader Implications:

• The incident underscores the gravity of espionage activities and the need for heightened vigilance in sensitive diplomatic missions.
• The alleged involvement of an Indian embassy employee in such activities poses significant challenges to national security.

1. Ongoing Investigation:

• The police continue to investigate the extent of Siwal’s connections and the potential impact of the information he may have shared with ISI handlers.

As the investigation unfolds, this incident highlights the complexities and risks associated with intelligence and security measures, emphasizing the ongoing need for robust counter-espionage efforts.