Former Indian Air Force Officer Detained in Assam for Alleged Pakistani Espionage Activities

Assam Police apprehended a retired Indian Air Force (IAF) officer on Friday night, accusing him of maintaining connections with a Pakistani espionage network.

The suspect has been identified as Kulendra Sarma, who resides in the Patia area of Tezpur. His arrest followed extensive surveillance operations and preliminary investigations conducted by local authorities.

According to police sources, they had been monitoring Sarma, who allegedly communicated with and provided sensitive information to individuals connected to a Pakistani intelligence agency. Investigators recovered suspicious materials from his mobile phone and laptop, although they believe some data may have been deleted. Haricharan Bhumij, Deputy Superintendent of Police for Sonitpur, Assam, stated that while there are strong suspicions regarding Sarma's links to Pakistan, final confirmation awaits the completion of the investigation.

Sarma had served as a Junior Warrant Officer at the Air Force Station in Tezpur before retiring in 2002. The station houses critical air assets, including a Sukhoi 30 squadron. Following his military service, Sarma briefly worked at Tezpur University.

Police sources revealed that authorities have registered a case against Sarma under multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).

The accused is scheduled to appear before court on Saturday.