Indian Embassy Employee Arrested in Moscow: Espionage Allegations Unravel
In a shocking turn of events, the Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terror Squad (U.P. ATS) has arrested Satendra Siwal, a Multi-Tasking Staff (MTS) working at the Indian Embassy in Moscow, on charges of allegedly spying for Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI).
Siwal, a resident of Shahmahiuddinpur village in Hapur district, had been serving as an India-based Security Assistant (IBSA) since 2021. The arrest comes after confidential intelligence sources tipped off the ATS about ISI handlers using fake identities to entice Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) employees, offering financial incentives in exchange for sensitive information related to the Indian Army, military installations, and the Defence Ministry.
According to a statement by the U.P. ATS, the intelligence received posed a significant threat to India’s internal and external security. Following thorough verification through technical and physical surveillance, Siwal was called in for questioning at the ATS field unit in Meerut. During interrogation, he failed to provide satisfactory answers and eventually admitted to his involvement in the alleged espionage.
An FIR has been registered against Siwal at the ATS police station in Lucknow under sections 121(A) of the Indian Penal Code and sections 3/5/9 of the Official Secrets Act-1923. Additionally, authorities have recovered two mobile phones, an Aadhar card, PAN card, identity card, and Rs. 600 from the accused.
This incident raises concerns about the vulnerability of diplomatic missions and the need for heightened security measures to safeguard sensitive information. The arrest underscores the constant battle against covert activities that threaten the nation’s security and emphasizes the importance of ongoing vigilance within diplomatic circles.
