Cooch Behar, West Bengal: The West Bengal Special Task Force (STF) has arrested three more men in Cooch Behar in connection with a suspected espionage network allegedly linked to Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), according to preliminary investigation details.
The arrested individuals have been identified as Rashidul Haque, Nur Nasiruddin Ali and Shafiqul Islam. Investigators are examining their alleged role in espionage-related activities and their possible connections with a wider cross-border network.
Indian SIM Cards Allegedly Sent Across the Border
According to investigators, the three suspects allegedly collected Indian SIM cards and sent them to Bangladesh, from where they were allegedly forwarded to Pakistan.
Security agencies are examining whether the SIM cards were intended to facilitate communications for individuals operating on behalf of Pakistan-based handlers.
The investigation is also looking into the possibility that the network had access to other logistical resources that could support covert activities.
Counterfeit Currency Angle Under Probe
Alongside the alleged espionage activities, the STF is reportedly investigating a possible counterfeit currency connection.
Investigators are examining financial transactions, communication records and other evidence to determine whether the suspects were involved in a broader criminal network or whether the alleged espionage activities were linked to the circulation of fake Indian currency.
Possible Link to Pakistani National Arrested in Habra
The latest arrests have also brought renewed attention to the arrest of Rana Rauf, alias Wahab Alam, a Pakistani national who was arrested in Habra on August 12 over alleged links with Pakistan’s ISI.
Investigators are now probing whether the three Cooch Behar suspects had any direct or indirect connection with Alam.
According to the investigation, authorities had earlier recovered data from a netbook belonging to Alam, which reportedly identified five Nepal-based associates who were allegedly being used as intermediaries between him and his Pakistan-based handlers.
Nepal Connection Under Investigation
The discovery of the alleged Nepal-based intermediaries has added another layer to the investigation.
STF officials are examining whether the Cooch Behar network was part of the same chain, potentially connecting West Bengal, Bangladesh and Nepal with Pakistan-based handlers.
Investigators are expected to analyse communication records, financial transactions, digital evidence and contact networks to establish whether the suspects were operating independently or as part of a larger coordinated espionage structure.
Probe Into Wider Network Continues
The arrests are being treated as part of an expanding investigation rather than an isolated case. Authorities are working to establish the full network, its financing, communication channels and possible handlers.
However, the allegations remain subject to investigation, and the exact nature of the suspects’ activities and their alleged links to Pakistan-based operatives will have to be established through further evidence and legal proceedings.
The investigation continues as the West Bengal STF works to determine whether the Cooch Behar arrests are connected to the previously identified Nepal-based network and the alleged ISI-linked activities surrounding Rana Rauf alias Wahab Alam.