The uncovering of ‘Operation Sindoor’ has exposed a sophisticated espionage cell directed by a handler in Pakistan to monitor Indian military installations through solar-powered CCTV technology.
The dismantling of ‘Operation Sindoor’ has exposed a sophisticated espionage network orchestrated by a handler based in Pakistan, aimed at compromising the security of Indian military installations. This covert cell focused on real-time surveillance through the strategic placement of solar-powered technology.
Investigations reveal that the conspiracy was not limited to a single region but was part of a broader blueprint to monitor sensitive movements across the country. By recruiting local assets and assigning them specific operational roles, the foreign handler managed to penetrate high-security zones before intelligence agencies intervened.
Surveillance tactics at military installations
The primary objective of the network was the persistent monitoring of strategic sites. A Pakistani operator sought to monitor “every activity taking place at the military bases” by utilizing modern surveillance equipment.
Initially, the focus was centered on Delhi Cantt and Sonipat, where successful installations had already occurred. However, the scope was rapidly expanding, as there were “plans to install CCTV cameras at military bases in Ambala as well” to create a continuous feed of intelligence for the handlers across the border.
Intentions behind the CCTV network
The choice of equipment was deliberate. The Pakistani operator “intended to use CCTV footage to monitor when and how many people were entering military bases, and the nature of the activity occurring there.” To ensure these cameras remained functional without needing a constant external power source, solar-powered units were selected.
One such device was “installed outside the Delhi Cantt railway station in February,” serving as a prototype for a much larger project. Intelligence reports suggest that 50 locations across India “had been identified where solar CCTV cameras were to be installed,” targeting both religious sites and military bases to gather a diverse range of data.
Roles and responsibilities of the arrested spies
The internal structure of the cell was highly organised, involving six primary suspects, including one woman. Each member held a specific portfolio to ensure the smooth flow of information and funds.
Sane Iram, known by her alias ‘Mehak’ and a resident of Sambhal, served as the primary bridge, as she was “in direct contact with the Pakistani handler.” While Iram managed the communications, Suhail “was responsible for distributing payments to the other spies,” ensuring the financial logistics did not stall the operation.
Execution and expansion of the espionage cell
The technical execution was handled by Praveen and Ritik, who were “tasked with installing the CCTVs and delivering the video footage to Iram.” Their work was already bearing fruit for their handlers; after installing cameras in Delhi Cantt and Sonipat, “they recorded video footage and sent it to the handler based in Pakistan.
” Iram was not merely a passive messenger but was “actively building a large-scale network” to increase the cell’s reach. The hardware itself was sourced domestically, as a “handler in Delhi had supplied the solar CCTV cameras to the spies.” Currently, the investigation has widened significantly, with the police having “so far detained 29 individuals, who are currently undergoing interrogation” to uncover the full extent of this security breach.
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