New Delhi, September 7, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Indian security agencies have busted multiple alleged espionage modules linked to Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) that were reportedly installing closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras near sensitive locations to transmit live feeds to handlers, officials said.
More than 100 alleged operatives have been arrested by various agencies, but officials said several such modules continue to operate in different parts of the country.
According to officials, CCTV-based intelligence gathering has emerged as a high-value method for the ISI, as live surveillance feeds can potentially provide information about military installations and other sensitive locations. Agencies believe the information is intended to assist handlers in planning attacks.
An Intelligence Bureau official said some existing modules transmit feeds directly to Pakistan. However, the ISI may increasingly route such information through third countries where it is reportedly establishing operational units, making it harder for investigators to trace the trail back to Pakistan.
Officials said Pakistan has previously operated alleged modules through handlers based in Syria and Arab countries, with information subsequently relayed to Pakistan.
Security officials also said handlers are increasingly renting premises in India close to sensitive locations for installing surveillance equipment. Operatives are reportedly instructed to keep such locations operational for only two to three months before shifting to another place.
Recent investigations in Ludhiana have highlighted the alleged interstate nature of these networks. According to officials, a busted module was not limited to planned CCTV installations in Ludhiana but allegedly intended to expand operations to Ferozepur and Rajasthan.
Officials said recruitment patterns are also changing, with handlers allegedly recruiting people from one city and deploying them in other locations to reduce suspicion. After completing their assignments, such operatives can return to their hometowns, making detection more difficult.
The financial incentives have also reportedly increased sharply. While recruits were earlier allegedly paid around Rs 5,000 to Rs 25,000 per assignment, operatives involved in interstate operations are now reportedly being offered Rs 3 lakh to Rs 5 lakh.
Officials said the increased payments underline the importance being attached to such surveillance networks. They alleged that Pakistan is seeking intelligence around military and other sensitive locations as part of efforts to carry out attacks and retaliate following Operation Sindoor.
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