Andhra Pradesh Counter-Intelligence is investigating an alleged Pakistan-linked espionage case involving sensitive defence information connected to Visakhapatnam. The probe has already led to the arrest of Indian Navy sailor Pradeep Mukherjee in Coimbatore.
According to current reports, the 31-year-old sailor was arrested on October 3 at INS Agrani in Coimbatore. He had joined the Indian Navy in 2014 and was posted with the Eastern Naval Command in Visakhapatnam. He was attending a management development course when investigators took him into custody.
Investigators allege that Mukherjee was contacted through social media by a woman believed to be a Pakistani intelligence operative. The relationship was allegedly used to obtain sensitive information about naval assets, fleet movements and the operational setup of the Visakhapatnam naval base.
The Andhra Pradesh Police Counter-Intelligence Cell reportedly began monitoring Mukherjee after detecting suspicious digital activity. Officials are now investigating the type and amount of information that may have been shared.
Investigators are also examining possible financial transactions linked to the alleged information transfer. Reports said authorities are checking whether any payments were made through digital channels or other methods.
The case has raised security concerns because Visakhapatnam is home to important naval and defence establishments. The Eastern Naval Command is based in the city, making any alleged attempt to obtain sensitive operational information a serious security matter.
The investigation is also examining whether Mukherjee acted alone or whether other people may have been involved. However, several details about the wider investigation have not been officially disclosed.
Reports circulating about a larger network, including claims of 18 suspects and 13 Navy personnel across multiple states and Union Territories, could not be independently confirmed from the latest official or major news reports reviewed for this article. Authorities have not publicly confirmed all of those details.
The case remains under investigation, and the allegations against the arrested sailor have not been established in court. Investigators are expected to examine his digital communications, financial records and possible contacts with the alleged Pakistani operative.
Mukherjee was produced before a court in Vijayawada after being brought from Coimbatore. The investigation by Andhra Pradesh Counter-Intelligence is continuing, with officials examining whether additional individuals or information channels are connected to the case.