The Itanagar police have arrested two men accused of passing sensitive information about military movements and installations in Arunachal Pradesh to Pakistani handlers. The suspects, identified as Nazir Ahmad Malik and Sabir Ahmed Mir from Kupwara in Jammu & Kashmir, were detained on 21 November following credible intelligence inputs about their alleged involvement in espionage activities.
Nazir was the first to be picked up from Ganga village, and based on details he provided during questioning, Sabir was arrested the same day from Abotani Colony. According to local sources, the duo had been transmitting critical information through a Telegram channel operated by handlers across the border.
Both individuals had been frequent visitors to Arunachal Pradesh for several years, ostensibly travelling through various districts to sell clothes. Police sources revealed that they had visited forward locations such as Kibitho, Anini and Tezu, where they allegedly gathered and shared photographs, videos and other classified details.
During preliminary interrogation, Nazir reportedly disclosed that Sabir had recruited him for spying in exchange for monetary benefits. Investigators said the pair had entered the state in April and began systematically collecting intelligence while remaining in regular contact with their handlers, who allegedly instructed them on what information to gather and which areas to target. Sabir is believed to have first established contact with the Pakistani handler via Telegram.
Superintendent of Police, Capital Itanagar, Jummar Basar urged the media to avoid sensationalising the issue, stressing that national security concerns should not be compromised. He warned that excessive publicity could alert other suspects and hinder the investigation.
Police officials confirmed that the probe has now widened, with more arrests likely. They said the case is being pursued with utmost seriousness and coordination with multiple agencies across different states is underway. Authorities have appealed to the public for cooperation as the investigation continues.
