Lagatar24 Desk
Kanpur: The Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) has arrested a junior works manager from Kanpur Ordnance Factory for allegedly leaking classified defence information to a suspected Pakistani intelligence agent. The accused, Kumar Vikas, was detained after an in-depth investigation into espionage activities within the factory.
How Sensitive Information Was Compromised
Officials revealed that Vikas was in contact with a Pakistani handler operating under the alias “Neha Sharma.” The agent posed as a Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL) employee and initially contacted him on Facebook. The two later exchanged numbers and continued communication via WhatsApp and Ludo gaming app to evade detection.
Classified Data Leaked by the Accused
Investigators disclosed that Vikas provided key military-related documents, including:
• Ordnance production charts
• Employee attendance records
• Machine layouts
• Other sensitive factory details
Reports indicate that financial incentives were used to lure Vikas into leaking classified information, with evidence confirming his engagement in espionage activities.
Link to Another Espionage Case
Vikas’ arrest follows the recent detention of another Ordnance Factory worker, Ravindra Kumar, on March 13 in Firozabad, for similar offences. During questioning, Ravindra Kumar confessed to leaking information, which led ATS officials to identify Vikas as another key suspect in the intelligence breach.
Authorities have charged both individuals under Section 148 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the Official Secrets Act, 1923.
ATS Investigating a Larger Espionage Network
The Uttar Pradesh ATS is expanding its probe to determine whether more defence employees are involved in the suspected Pakistani spy network. Law enforcement agencies have heightened surveillance to prevent further security breaches.
