Two Naval Base Staffers Arrested in Visakhapatnam Over Alleged Espionage

A coordinated operation, codenamed "Operation Firewall–2026", was launched by the Andhra Pradesh Police's Counter Intelligence Cell on October 1, resulting in the arrest of two individuals linked to the naval base at Visakhapatnam. The arrests are part of a broader investigation that has seen 12 teams of the CI cell deployed across 10 states and Union Territories.

This includes Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Gujarat, Goa, Delhi, Tamil Nadu, Chhattisgarh, and Bihar. Pradeep Mukharjee, an employee of the Visakhapatnam base, was detained in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, on suspicion of sharing sensitive information with a Pakistan Intelligence Operative (PIO) in exchange for financial gain.

Authorities claim that Mukharjee allegedly activated a WhatsApp account using an OTP. Communicated with the operative, and shared information relating to Naval/Defence establishments. He was produced before a court in Vijayawada on Tuesday, where he was remanded in judicial custody until October 14.

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Annam Sai Varaprasad, a civilian contractual driver engaged for naval officers at Visakhapatnam, is also under investigation for allegedly sharing sensitive information with a PIO in exchange for money. According to officials, 18 suspects are currently being probed in connection with the case.

This is being investigated under various sections of the law. This includes the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). The Counter Intelligence Cell received credible information regarding suspected espionage activity involving individuals in India maintaining direct contact with PIOs. And an FIR has been filed in this regard.

In coordination with Anti-Terrorist Squads and local law enforcement, the AP CI Cell has been examining the alleged complicity of the suspects and seizing electronic gadgets from them. The two suspects arrested so far are believed to have been involved in the alleged espionage conspiracy. And further investigation is ongoing for the remaining 16 suspects.

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A nationwide crackdown on espionage is underway, with the Counter Intelligence Cell spearheading a multi-state, multi-Union Territory operation. Launched on October 1, codenamed "Operation Firewall–2026", the initiative targets critical defence sites and strategic locations. Intelligence gathered by the CI Cell suggests credible evidence of suspected espionage, prompting a concerted effort to identify and apprehend those implicated.

As the investigation continues, authorities are working to identify and apprehend the remaining suspects. The Counter Intelligence (CI) Cell has already seized electronic gadgets from the two arrested individuals and is examining their alleged complicity in the case.

The AP CI Cell is also coordinating with Anti-Terrorist Squads and local police officers to gather more information and build a stronger case. The outcome of this operation will have significant implications for national security, and the public is being kept informed of any developments.