IAF officer held on charges of sharing sensitive info with Pakistan operative

New Delhi: The Indian Air Force has arrested a serving Wing Commander for allegedly sharing sensitive defence-related information with a Pakistan-based intelligence operative. The arrest, made on May 30, follows what officials describe as a honey-trapping operation through social media. The officer was posted at a field unit on the Western Front.

According to an Indian Air Force spokesperson, the officer came under surveillance after his interactions with a woman on a social media platform raised suspicion. “He was under active surveillance and was handed over to the suitable law enforcement agencies,” the spokesperson said. The Delhi Police subsequently registered a case based on a complaint filed by the IAF authorities.

The officer, whose identity has not been disclosed, is alleged to have shared sensitive information with the operative. Officials said that the accused had been going through a difficult phase in his personal life when he began chatting with the woman. The interaction later escalated into regular video calls. These details, however, are part of the investigation and are yet to be proven in a court of law.

The officer has been booked under the Official Secrets Act, which deals with espionage and disclosure of classified information. The Delhi Police said that the investigation has been completed and a charge sheet was submitted before the competent court on July 30. “The matter is now sub judice,” the police added, underscoring that the accused is presumed innocent until proven guilty.

This case highlights the growing concern over attempts by foreign intelligence agencies to target serving defence personnel through social media. Security agencies have repeatedly warned personnel about the risks of befriending unknown individuals online, citing instances where personal information is used for blackmail or manipulation. Honey-trapping, a method involving the use of romantic or emotional lures to extract information, has been a persistent threat.

The Indian Air Force has not commented on the specific details of the case, as legal proceedings are underway. Defence analysts note that such incidents underscore the need for continual vigilance and periodic security training for personnel, especially those stationed in sensitive operational areas.

The arrest and subsequent charge sheet reflect the legal process taking its course. The case is now under judicial scrutiny, and any further details will emerge as the trial proceeds.