The Andhra Pradesh Police Counter Intelligence Cell has arrested two people as part of an investigation into a suspected espionage network allegedly linked to Pakistan-based intelligence operatives. The operation, code-named Operation Firewall–2026, was launched on October 1 and involved coordinated searches and investigations across 10 States and Union Territories. The Indian Express

The arrested persons have been identified as Annam Sai Varaprasad, a civilian contractual driver engaged for naval officers in Visakhapatnam, and Pradeep Mukherjee, an employee associated with the Visakhapatnam naval base. Police allege that sensitive information concerning naval and defence establishments was shared with Pakistan-based intelligence operatives through encrypted communication channels. Hindustan Times

According to the police, the broader module under investigation comprises 18 suspects, including 13 people associated with the Navy. Twelve Counter Intelligence teams were deployed across Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Gujarat, Goa, Delhi, Tamil Nadu, Chhattisgarh and Bihar, working with State anti-terror squads, Naval officials and local police. The Indian Express

Police said Varaprasad allegedly shared sensitive information with a Pakistan-based intelligence operative and received money in connection with it. Mukherjee is accused of facilitating communication with Pakistan-based intelligence operatives, including allegedly sharing an OTP for activation of a WhatsApp account and communicating with them. The Indian Express

The case was registered at the Counter Intelligence Police Station in Vijayawada on September 2. Investigators have invoked provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act and Official Secrets Act, according to reports. Both arrested suspects have been remanded to judicial custody until October 14, while the investigation into the remaining suspects continues. The Indian Express

Important: These are allegations under an ongoing investigation. The claims against the accused have not been established as facts by a court.