UP Anti-Terrorism Squad arrests Noida scrap dealer on espionage charges linked to Pakistan-backed group

The Uttar Pradesh Police’s Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) on Thursday arrested a 45-year-old scrap dealer from Noida, Mohammad Haroon, for allegedly being involved with a Pakistan-sponsored anti-national organisation and espionage activities, officials said.

Haroon, a resident of Seelampur in Delhi, was reportedly running an extortion racket, demanding money from individuals seeking Pakistani visas. Police recovered two mobile phones and Rs 16,900 from his possession during the arrest.

According to ATS sources, intelligence inputs indicated that Haroon was working in coordination with an employee at the Pakistan High Commission in India. He allegedly shared sensitive information related to India’s national security with this individual.

Further investigation revealed that the High Commission employee was a Pakistani national. During questioning, Haroon admitted to having relatives in Pakistan and stated that he had established contact with the diplomat during visits to the High Commission.

“The accused maintained regular communication with the Pakistani official and provided critical information concerning India’s internal security,” the ATS statement said.

Officials added that the employee aimed to destabilise India and, on his instructions, Haroon collected money through several bank accounts. The funds, reportedly obtained from clients who had received Pakistani visas, were passed in cash via an intermediary and used to finance anti-national activities.

The Indian government has declared the Pakistan High Commission employee ‘Persona Non Grata’ and ordered his expulsion from the country.

An FIR has been registered under sections 148 (conspiracy) and 152 (acts endangering sovereignty, unity and integrity of India) of the BNS at the ATS police station.

Haroon is scheduled to be produced in court as the investigation continues, officials said.