In a coordinated operation, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) has arrested a US citizen along with six Ukrainian nationals from multiple airports across India.

The arrests were made in Kolkata, Lucknow and New Delhi on March 13. Matthew Aaron VanDyke was detained in Kolkata, while the Ukrainian nationals — Petro Hurba, Taras Slyviak, Ivan Sukmanovskyi, Marian Stefankiv, Maksim Honcharuk and Viktor Kaminskyi — were picked up from Lucknow and Delhi.

Custody and legal action

A special court at Patiala House Courts remanded all seven accused to 11 days of NIA custody on March 16 under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA).

Allegations of illegal entry and militant links

According to investigators, the group allegedly travelled to Mizoram without obtaining the required Restricted Area Permit. They are further accused of crossing into Myanmar unlawfully.

The NIA claims the individuals established contact with ethnic armed groups operating in the region, which are believed to have links with insurgent outfits in India’s Northeast.

Officials allege that the group was involved in organising training activities and had plans related to weapons supply and drone-based operations, including handling and jamming technologies.

Profile of Matthew VanDyke

Matthew Aaron VanDyke, the most prominent among those arrested, is known internationally for his involvement in conflict zones. He rose to attention during the Libyan Civil War, where he joined rebel forces opposing Muammar Gaddafi.

He has also reportedly taken part in operations against Islamic State in Iraq and has been associated with training efforts in Ukraine amid its conflict with Russia.

VanDyke is the founder of Sons of Liberty International and has described himself as a security analyst, filmmaker and combat veteran.

Investigation underway

The case is currently under investigation, with agencies examining the group’s alleged activities in Myanmar and their possible implications for India’s internal security.