The Delhi Police Special Cell has arrested 25-year-old Mohammad Sahil and his 21-year-old wife, Sameera, in connection with an alleged espionage network linked to Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI).
According to investigators, the couple had been in contact with Pakistan-based intelligence handlers since 2024. Police allege that their activities extended beyond online communication and included logistical support, procurement of Indian SIM cards and efforts to recruit people for espionage-related operations.
The investigation reportedly uncovered links connecting the accused in Delhi with handlers operating from Pakistan, including locations such as Karachi and Islamabad. Police said the handlers allegedly provided financial incentives to the couple in exchange for assistance to the network.
Eight Indian SIM cards allegedly sent through Dubai
One of the most significant findings in the investigation concerns the alleged movement of Indian SIM cards outside the country.
Police said Sahil and Sameera obtained eight Indian SIM cards between 2024 and 2025 and sent them to Pakistan through Dubai. Investigators allege that the couple received around Rs 30,000 for providing the SIM cards.
According to the Special Cell, the Indian mobile numbers were subsequently used to activate WhatsApp accounts from Pakistan. These accounts were allegedly used by Pakistani operatives to communicate with individuals in India and attempt to access sensitive information.
Investigators further alleged that some of the WhatsApp accounts were used to enter Indian groups, potentially allowing the operators to identify contacts and gather information.
Social media allegedly became entry point for espionage network
Police said the alleged espionage operation relied heavily on social media and encrypted communication platforms.
The investigation reportedly began after the Special Cell received information about an alleged network providing logistical assistance to terrorist organisations, overground workers and sleeper cells. Investigators then traced local individuals suspected of facilitating communication between Pakistan-based handlers and contacts in India.
Sahil allegedly came into contact with a Pakistani agent through Instagram in 2024. According to police, that contact eventually introduced him to a Pakistani intelligence operative who allegedly recruited the couple into the network.
Investigators said forensic examination of Sahil’s mobile phone revealed chats and conversations with Pakistani agents. Those digital trails reportedly helped investigators identify Sameera’s alleged involvement and trace additional links within the network.
Police allege reconnaissance of military areas
The allegations against Sahil reportedly went beyond supplying SIM cards.
According to the Special Cell, he was allegedly tasked with identifying and recruiting individuals who could conduct reconnaissance of cantonment areas in different parts of India.
Police also alleged that Sahil provided information concerning Army personnel facing court-martial proceedings before a tribunal. Investigators are examining the nature and extent of the information allegedly shared and whether it was ultimately transmitted to Pakistan-based handlers.
The claims are part of an ongoing investigation, and the allegations against the accused will be subject to judicial proceedings.
Couple allegedly provided logistical support
Investigators believe the couple may have played a supporting role in a wider network rather than operating independently.
Police alleged that Sahil and Sameera were responsible for providing logistical assistance in Delhi and helping recruit additional individuals for espionage and field operations.
Two mobile phones were recovered from the accused. According to police, forensic examination of the devices revealed conversations involving alleged Pakistani intelligence operatives, along with information about contacts and activities associated with the network.
Also Read — PM Modi-Putin SCO Meet: India-Russia Alliance Set For Talks On Trade, Energy And Defence
The digital evidence is expected to be a key part of the investigation as authorities attempt to establish the wider structure of the alleged espionage module.
Who are Sahil and Sameera?
Police identified Sahil as a resident of Delhi’s Sarai Kale Khan area. Born in 2001, he reportedly holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU).
According to investigators, Sahil had previously worked with a lawyer and was planning to pursue an LLB degree. He left his job in June 2025 and had remained unemployed since then.
Sameera, born in 2005, completed her schooling up to Class 12 at Kanya Vidyalaya in Keshav Puram and later obtained a BA degree through correspondence. Before her arrest, she was reportedly employed at a call centre in Noida.
Investigation continues to trace wider network
The arrest of the Delhi couple has provided investigators with what police describe as important leads into the alleged Pakistan-based intelligence network and its contacts within India.
Authorities are now examining the communications, financial transactions, SIM-card trail and digital devices recovered during the investigation. The focus is also expected to remain on identifying other individuals who may have been recruited or used by the alleged network.
The case highlights the growing role of social media, digital communication and mobile connectivity in alleged cross-border espionage operations. Police are investigating whether the network attempted to exploit ordinary communication platforms and Indian mobile numbers to establish contacts and obtain sensitive information.
As the investigation progresses, Delhi Police are expected to establish the complete chain of handlers, intermediaries and alleged operatives involved in the case.
Click here to join our WhatsApp Channel for real-time news updates and exclusive coverage.
