‘Honey-trapped’ IAF officer held for allegedly sharing classified defence data

NEW DELHI: An Indian Air Force (IAF) Wing Commander has been arrested for allegedly leaking sensitive defence information after being honey-trapped through social media by Pakistani intelligence operatives, officials said.According to an ANI report, the officer was under surveillance by the IAF intelligence wing before he was arrested and handed over to law enforcement agencies. Delhi Police sources said he is currently in judicial custody and has been booked under provisions of the Official Secrets Act for allegedly sharing classified information and confidential defence-related documents.IAF officials said, "He was under active surveillance and was handed over to the suitable law enforcement agencies. Due to proactive measures, he was caught. The IAF has zero tolerance for such activities."Sources said the officer allegedly fell victim to a honey trap operated by Pakistani intelligence personnel through social media. He is also accused of installing data-stealing software on a colleague's mobile phone in an alleged attempt to gain access to the device.The arrest followed specific inputs shared by the IAF intelligence wing with the Delhi Police, sources said. Further investigation into the case is underway.The incident comes amid continued concerns over attempts by Pakistani intelligence operatives to target Indian personnel and civilians through social media-based honey traps.Last year, Rajasthan Police arrested an Alwar resident, identified as Mangat Singh, for allegedly spying for Pakistan's intelligence agency ISI. Police said a surveillance operation had been launched in the state following Operation Sindoor, during which Singh's activities in the cantonment area of Alwar were found to be suspicious.According to police, Singh had allegedly been honey-trapped by a female Pakistani handler using the pseudonym Isha Sharma. The handler reportedly offered him money in exchange for cooperation. Police said Singh had remained in contact with Pakistani handlers through social media platforms for around two years.Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.