Gujarat Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) has apprehended a suspect, Dipesh Gohel (33), for allegedly passing sensitive information related to Indian Coast Guard to a Pakistani agent in exchange for financial compensation. The case highlights the grave threat posed by espionage activities to national security.  

According to ATS officials, Gohel, a resident of Jai Ambe Society, Mandal, in Devbhoomi Dwarka district, worked as a welder on Coast Guard boats at Okha Jetty for the past three years. Seven months ago, he came into contact with a Facebook user named ‘Sahima’, who claimed to be a Pakistani naval officer. Their interaction continued on WhatsApp, where Sahima allegedly sought sensitive details about Coast Guard vessels stationed at Okha port.  

Investigations revealed that Gohel provided Sahima with names, numbers, and details of defense boats in exchange for money. Over the last seven to eight months, Sahima reportedly deposited ₹42,000 into the UPI-linked accounts of Gohel's associates, as Gohel himself did not possess a bank account. The transactions were confirmed during forensic analysis of their WhatsApp conversations. 

“The accused revealed the movement of ships, sharing details in exchange for ₹200 per day. Since he didn’t have a bank account, the transactions were made to his friends’ accounts,” said senior ATS officials.  

Such espionage activities, ATS officials stated, pose a significant risk to India’s national and internal security. Sharing details about military assets with foreign agents compromises the country’s strategic defenses and intelligence networks.  

The ATS has registered a case under Sections 61 and 148 of the Indian Penal Code against Gohel and Sahima. During interrogation, Gohel admitted to being lured by the promise of money, which led to his consistent communication with Sahima and the subsequent exchange of classified information.  

“It was revealed that the accused was fully aware of the consequences of his actions but continued sharing sensitive information for financial gain. Preliminary investigations have recovered some of the information shared via WhatsApp. Further inquiry is expected to uncover more details,” said senior officials.  

Investigations are ongoing to track Sahima, believed to be operating from Pakistan and using a Indian phone number.