The Itanagar Police have arrested two men for allegedly passing sensitive information from Arunachal Pradesh to Pakistani handlers. The accused, identified as Nazir Ahmad Malik and Sabir Ahmed Mir from Kupwara in Jammu & Kashmir, were picked up on 21 November after police received reliable inputs about their suspected links to espionage activities. Nazir was held first at Ganga village, and based on what he revealed during questioning, Sabir was arrested the same day from Abotani Colony.
A local journalist told us that the duo had been sending crucial details about Army movements and installations in Arunachal Pradesh to their handlers in Pakistan through a Telegram channel.
Both men have been frequent visitors to the state for several years, travelling across districts to sell clothes. During these visits, they reportedly managed to access forward locations like Kibitho, Anini and Tezu, where they are suspected to have collected sensitive information.
During interrogation, Nazir is said to have admitted that Sabir recruited him for spying in exchange for money.
Sources said Nazir had gathered a substantial amount of data—photos, videos and other details of important military locations—which he then shared with the handlers. He remained in touch with Sabir throughout the period. The two arrived in Arunachal in April this year and allegedly began their covert activities soon after. Sabir was reportedly the first to establish contact with a Pakistani handler via Telegram.
Speaking to India Today, Itanagar Capital SP Jummar Basar urged the media not to sensationalise the issue, noting that it concerns national security. He cautioned that excessive coverage may alert others involved and hamper further arrests.
Police officials said the investigation is being expanded and more arrests are expected. “This is a very sensitive case and only the beginning. We need the cooperation of the public,” a senior officer said. The case is being handled with utmost seriousness, with the state police coordinating closely with multiple agencies, including those from outside Arunachal.