Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (TP)

Udupi, Nov 21: Udupi district police have arrested two employees working at the Malpe unit of Cochin Shipyard on charges of espionage in favour of Pakistan.

The arrested individuals have been identified as Rohit and Santri, both natives of Uttar Pradesh.

The accused were employed on a contract basis through Sushma Marine Private Limited. Cochin Shipyard, headquartered in Kerala, is a major shipbuilding organization involved in constructing tug vessels for the Indian Navy as well as ships for private clients.

According to police sources, the duo had been transmitting confidential information related to shipbuilding and naval equipment to Pakistan for the past one and a half years.

Rohit, who previously worked in Kerala, had allegedly shared classified ship lists and sensitive information through WhatsApp in exchange for money. After being posted at the Malpe shipyard, he and his accomplice reportedly continued to provide classified data for financial gain.

The arrests were made following a formal complaint lodged by the CEO of Cochin Shipyard. Udupi Police took the accused into custody and produced them before the court.

Udupi superintendent of police Hariram Shankar stated that national investigative agencies, including the NIA, may join the probe considering the seriousness of the offence, which is viewed as a threat to the sovereignty and security of the nation.