2 Karnataka shipyard staff arrested for selling data to Pakistan
Two employees of the Malpe Cochin Shipyard in Udupi, Karnataka, have been arrested on charges of espionage. The accused, identified as Rohit and Santhri from Uttar Pradesh, were allegedly leaking sensitive information to handlers in Pakistan via WhatsApp for over 18 months. The leaked data reportedly included details of vessels constructed for the Indian Navy and private clients.
Espionage uncovered after formal complaint
The arrests were made after a formal complaint was lodged by the CEO of Cochin Shipyard, Malpe, which is an institution under the Union Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways. According to the complaint, after joining the Malpe shipyard unit, Rohit continued to gather sensitive material from a friend in Kochi and further distribute it to an unauthorized individual, violating security regulations and potentially threatening India's sovereignty, unity, and integrity.
National agencies suspect larger espionage network
The prime accused, Rohit (29), an insulator employed through a subcontractor, had previously worked at Cochin Shipyard Limited in Kochi, Kerala, where naval ships are built. Acting on the complaint, the police apprehended the suspects and produced them before court. They have been sent to police remand till December 3.