What Sentences Were Given to Two More Convicts in the Visakhapatnam Navy Spying Case?
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Synopsis
In a significant development, a special NIA court in Visakhapatnam has sentenced two more individuals in the navy spying case, raising the total convictions to four. The accused were linked to foreign espionage activities targeting vital military installations, raising national security concerns.
Key Takeaways
- Two additional convicts sentenced in Visakhapatnam navy spying case.
- Total convictions now stand at four.
- Convicts linked to foreign espionage activities threatening national security.
- Both convicts fined Rs 5,000 each with additional penalties.
- NIA continues to investigate and prosecute the case.
Visakhapatnam, Oct 17 (NationPress) A specialized National Investigation Agency (NIA) court has handed down sentences to two additional defendants in the Visakhapatnam navy espionage incident, marking a total of four convictions to date.
Mohammad Haroon Haji Abdul Rehman Lakdawala from Mumbai received a sentence of five and a half years of simple imprisonment (SI) for violations of sections 17 and 18 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act. Meanwhile, Imran Yakub Giteli from Godhra has been sentenced to six years of simple imprisonment for the same charges.
The NIA revealed that both convicts have been fined Rs 5,000 each, and failure to pay will result in an additional year of simple imprisonment.
This case involves espionage activities directed at crucial installations and the Indian Navy by foreign agents operating within the nation.
Lakdawala was apprehended by the NIA in May 2020, while Giteli was arrested in September 2020, in relation to a case initiated in 2019. Both were captured in their home states.
The duo was identified as agents for foreign intelligence services engaged in espionage in India, posing a serious threat to the nation’s unity, integrity, security, and sovereignty. The NIA reported that they maintained regular communications with Pakistani spies via WhatsApp.
Investigations revealed that both men had family ties in Pakistan and had interacted with Pakistani intelligence during their visits. They were involved in illicit trade and other businesses with Pakistan, utilizing illegal channels. Profits from these operations were funneled to finance espionage activities in India. The accused transferred various sums into the accounts of implicated Navy personnel using online transfers and other banking methods under the guidance of Pakistani agents from Mumbai and Godhra.
The NIA took over the investigation from the Counter Intelligence Police Station, Intelligence Department, Andhra Pradesh Police, Vijayawada, in December 2019. Throughout the investigation, 15 individuals were arrested, including 11 Navy personnel.
In June 2020, the agency filed charges against 14 defendants, followed by an additional charge sheet for one more defendant in March 2021.
Ongoing investigations and court proceedings are being conducted, as stated by the NIA.
Point of View
It is imperative that we recognize the seriousness of espionage activities that threaten our sovereignty and security. The swift action taken by the NIA demonstrates the commitment to safeguarding our nation. Ongoing investigations will hopefully bring all those involved to justice, reinforcing our stance against foreign interference.
NationPress
19/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the sentences given to the convicts?
Mohammad Haroon Haji Abdul Rehman Lakdawala has received a sentence of five and a half years, while Imran Yakub Giteli has been sentenced to six years of imprisonment.
What were the charges against the convicts?
Both convicts were charged under sections 17 and 18 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act for their involvement in espionage activities.
How many people have been convicted in this case?
So far, a total of four individuals have been convicted in the Visakhapatnam navy espionage case.
What was the role of foreign agents in this case?
The accused were found to be in regular contact with foreign spies and involved in espionage activities that compromised India's national security.
What is the significance of this case?
This case highlights the ongoing threat of espionage from foreign entities and underscores the importance of national security measures.
