A scientist working for the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) in Pune has been arrested by the Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) for providing confidential information to a Pakistani agent, officials said on May 4.
Advertisement
Advertisement
The scientist was allegedly in touch with an agent of a “Pakistan Intelligence Operative” through WhatsApp and video calls, an ATS official said. It was a case of honeytrap, he added. DRDO scientist held for ‘Pak link’ headed key research lab, ATS is probing ‘foreign visits’ in espionage case.
According to media reports the senior scientist was the director of a key research facility in Pune and made “foreign visits” that are now being probed by the ATS.
The ATS said that despite holding a responsible position, the scientist allegedly misused his post thereby compromising sensitive government secrets, which could pose a threat to India’s security if it falls into the hands of the enemy nation. A case has been filed against the scientist under Section 1923 of the Official Secrets Act 1923 and other relevant sections.
Documents submitted by the ATS in a Pune court show that the accused, Pradeep Kurulkar (59), headed the Research & Development Establishment (Engineers), which is based in the city, it is learnt. According to ATS sources he was moved out of this position recently.
Advertisement