A covert investigation in Rajasthan has led to the arrest of a civilian employee at an Indian Air Force station, uncovering what officials describe as a wider espionage network with links to Pakistani intelligence agencies. The case, which began months earlier with a separate detention, is now being seen as part of a larger and more complex operation.
According to Rajasthan Intelligence, the trail started in January 2026 with the arrest of Jhabara Ram, a resident of Jaisalmer. During interrogation, he disclosed connections to another व्यक्ति who was allegedly in contact with Pakistani handlers. This lead eventually pointed investigators to Sumit Kumar.
Sumit Kumar, 36, originally from Prayagraj, was employed as a Multi-Tasking Staff member at the Air Force Station in Chabua, Assam. Officials allege that he misused his access to sensitive areas to gather confidential information related to the Indian Air Force and passed it on to Pakistani operatives through social media platforms.
In a joint operation involving Rajasthan Intelligence and Air Force Intelligence, Kumar was detained from Chabua and brought to Jaipur for further questioning. Investigators claim he had been in touch with Pakistani intelligence since 2023 and was sharing classified information in exchange for money.
During interrogation, it was revealed that he allegedly leaked critical details about key Air Force installations, including Chabua in Assam and Nal in Bikaner. The information is said to have included locations of fighter aircraft, missile systems, and sensitive data about officers and personnel. Authorities also found that he assisted Pakistani handlers by creating social media accounts using mobile numbers registered in his name.
Kumar was formally arrested on March 22 under provisions of the Official Secrets Act, 1923, along with relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. Officials believe the case indicates the presence of a broader espionage network operating within India, and further investigations are underway to identify additional operatives and connections.
