A man suspected of working for Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) has been arrested by the Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS), officials said on Saturday. The accused, Shehzad, hailing from Rampur district, was apprehended from Moradabad.

This arrest is part of a broader nationwide operation targeting individuals believed to be engaged in espionage for Pakistan. Authorities have already detained several people, including YouTubers and influencers, as part of the ongoing crackdown.

As per an official statement from the ATS, Shehzad was being monitored after intelligence inputs pointed to his involvement in cross-border smuggling activities, allegedly under the protection of the Pakistani intelligence agency.

Investigators say Shehzad made multiple trips to Pakistan and was active in the illegal trade of goods such as spices, garments, and cosmetics across the border. However, this smuggling network is believed to have masked a deeper role in espionage.

The ATS alleges that Shehzad built strong connections with ISI agents and provided them with sensitive information concerning national security. He also allegedly supported ISI operations in India by transferring funds and arranging logistics.

Further investigations suggest that Shehzad helped send people from Rampur and surrounding regions to Pakistan on the pretext of smuggling. These individuals were reportedly recruited for espionage-related activities. Officials claim ISI operatives assisted in securing travel documents and visas for these trips.

Additionally, Shehzad is accused of sourcing Indian SIM cards and passing them to ISI handlers, potentially to aid covert communications.

A case has been filed against him under Sections 148 and 152 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita at the ATS police station in Lucknow. He has been presented in court, and legal proceedings are currently in progress.