NIA Arrests Kolkata Man Linked to Pakistan Espionage Network

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) arrested Jafar Riaz alias Rizvi in Kolkata, suspected of being part of a Pakistan-linked espionage network. He allegedly facilitated illegal communication by sending One-Time Passwords (OTPs) from Indian SIM cards to Pakistan, enabling the activation of Indian mobile numbers for unauthorized use. Riaz has a history of espionage, having been previously convicted and was under proceedings to be declared a Proclaimed Offender. Investigators are probing his connections to a larger cross-border espionage operation and whether he was offered money or citizenship for his activities. His movements were tracked following a related arrest in Murshidabad, and he has reportedly traveled to Pakistan multiple times since 2005. The NIA has not disclosed if further arrests are anticipated.

Key Points: • Jafar Riaz was arrested for allegedly facilitating espionage for Pakistan. • He is suspected of sending OTPs from Indian SIM cards to Pakistan for unauthorized use. • The investigation is ongoing, with potential for more arrests linked to a larger espionage network.