Have Two More Individuals Been Convicted in the Pakistan-Linked Visakhapatnam Navy Espionage Case?
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Synopsis
In a significant development in the Pakistan-linked Visakhapatnam Navy espionage case, two more individuals have been sentenced to Simple Imprisonment by the NIA court. This case highlights the ongoing threat posed by foreign intelligence operations targeting India's defense infrastructure.
Key Takeaways
- Two more individuals convicted in the espionage case.
- Sentenced to five years and ten months of Simple Imprisonment.
- Connection to foreign intelligence agencies established.
- Total of six convictions in this case.
- NIA continues investigation against remaining accused.
New Delhi, Nov 7 (NationPress) Two additional individuals have been sentenced to Simple Imprisonment (SI) in the Pakistan-linked Visakhapatnam Navy espionage case, according to a statement from a special court of the National Investigation Agency (NIA) issued on Friday.
The NIA's special court located in Visakhapatnam (Andhra Pradesh) sentenced Kalavalapalli Konda Babu from Visakhapatnam District (Andhra Pradesh) and Aviansh Somal from Kangra District (Himachal Pradesh) to a term of five years and ten months of SI under sections 18 of the UA(P) Act and section 3 of the Official Secrets Act.
The court also imposed a fine of Rs 5,000 on each convict, stating that failure to pay would result in an additional year of SI.
As a result, a total of six individuals have been convicted in this case, which involves espionage activities at critical installations and Indian Navy facilities by foreign agents, aimed at jeopardizing India's unity, integrity, security, and sovereignty.
The two recently convicted were apprehended in December 2019 in Mumbai (Maharashtra) and Karwar (Karnataka) as part of the case RC-05/2019/NIA/HYD. The NIA's investigations indicated that they were in contact with foreign intelligence agencies via WhatsApp and were involved in disseminating sensitive information regarding Indian Defense operations.
Investigations revealed that both men initially connected with Pakistani intelligence agents through Facebook. They received financial benefits from these agents in exchange for classified information, facilitated through individuals previously convicted in this case.
The NIA took over the investigation from the Counter-Intelligence Police Station, Intelligence Department, Vijayawada (Andhra Pradesh Police) in December 2019, leading to a cumulative arrest of 15 individuals over time.
In June 2020, the agency filed charges against 14 individuals, followed by a supplementary charge sheet for another accused in March 2021.
Ongoing investigations and trials are set to continue against the remaining accused.
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize the gravity of this case. The conviction of these individuals underscores the persistent threats to our national security from foreign intelligence operations. Our nation's safety must always come first, and it is imperative to remain vigilant against such espionage activities that aim to undermine India's sovereignty and integrity.
NationPress
08/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Visakhapatnam Navy espionage case?
The Visakhapatnam Navy espionage case involves individuals accused of spying on critical Indian Navy installations, with connections to foreign intelligence agencies, particularly from Pakistan.
What sentences were handed out in this case?
Two individuals were sentenced to five years and ten months of Simple Imprisonment and fined Rs 5,000 each, with additional penalties for non-payment.
How many individuals have been convicted so far?
A total of six individuals have been convicted in relation to this espionage case.
When were the accused arrested?
The two recently convicted individuals were arrested in December 2019.
What actions were taken by the NIA?
The NIA took over the investigation from local police in December 2019 and has charged a total of 15 individuals in connection with this case.
