NIA Arrests 7 Foreign Nationals Over Terror Plot
Seven foreign nationals, including six Ukrainians and one U.S. citizen, were arrested by the NIA over an alleged terror conspiracy linked to Myanmar and suspected drone routing.
NEW DELHI: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has arrested seven foreign nationals, including six Ukrainian citizens and one United States national, in connection with an alleged conspiracy involving militant training and the suspected routing of drones through India.
According to officials familiar with the investigation, three of the Ukrainian nationals were detained in Delhi, while others were apprehended in Lucknow and Kolkata. The U.S. citizen was reportedly arrested in Kolkata.
The accused have been booked under Section 18 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) for allegedly conspiring to carry out terrorist activities against India.
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Investigators said the suspects had travelled to Mizoram and allegedly crossed illegally into conflict-affected regions of Myanmar. Authorities suspect that the movement was linked to militant training and the establishment of cross-border logistical networks.
The investigation has also revealed that the accused allegedly transported a consignment of drones from Europe into India. Officials believe these drones were routed onward and could have been intended for use in a larger terror-related operation.
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The seven accused were produced before a court in Delhi, which granted the NIA 11 days of custody until March 27 for custodial interrogation. The agency had sought extended custody, stating that further questioning is necessary to uncover the full scope of the alleged conspiracy.
Officials involved in the probe said investigators are focusing on several aspects of the case, including tracing routes used for cross-border movement, analysing mobile data and financial transactions, and examining social media accounts to identify possible associates who may still be absconding.
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India shares a 1,600-kilometre border with Myanmar, where several armed ethnic groups operate near Indian states such as Manipur and Mizoram. Security agencies have previously flagged concerns about cross-border movements and the potential implications for regional security.
Authorities also noted that Mizoram requires special permits for foreign nationals, making the alleged illegal entry of the accused into the state an important aspect of the ongoing investigation.
The NIA has indicated that the probe is continuing and further details about the alleged network may emerge as the investigation progresses.
