NIA charges 13 in Ghaziabad espionage case

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has filed a charge sheet against 13 individuals in connection with the Ghaziabad espionage case. The investigation involves allegations of passing sensitive information regarding prohibited and vital areas to entities in an enemy country, identified as being linked to Pakistan.

According to the NIA, the accused allegedly trespassed into sensitive locations, installed spy cameras—including solar-powered devices at railway stations—and transmitted geo-tagged photographs and videos to provide live access to suspected terrorists. The investigation suggests a criminal conspiracy aimed at acts prejudicial to the sovereignty, unity, and integrity of India.

The charge sheet was submitted to a special court in Lucknow under several statutes, including the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, the Official Secrets Act, and the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). The named individuals include Praveen, Raj Valmiki, Shiva Valmiki, Ritik Gangwar, Sameer (alias Shooter), Durgesh Nishad, Naushad, Gagan Kumar, Vivek, Shivraj, Meera Thakur, and Shane Iram (alias Mahak).

Previously, a Detailed Investigation Report regarding five juveniles involved in the matter was submitted to the Juvenile Justice Board in Ghaziabad in May 2026. To date, 21 people have been arrested in relation to this case.