Delhi Court Grants NIA Custody to Foreigners in Ethnic Armed Group Conspiracy

A Delhi court granted the NIA 11-day custody of six Ukrainians and a US national accused of aiding Myanmar's Ethnic Armed Groups. The suspects allegedly infiltrated India illegally from Myanmar. NIA argues interrogation is crucial to uncover a broader conspiracy potentially threatening India's national security.

In a significant development, a Delhi court has authorized the National Investigation Agency (NIA) 11-day custody of six Ukrainian and one American national. They are accused of collaborating with Myanmar-based Ethnic Armed Groups (EAGs), which have ties to insurgent factions in India. These individuals reportedly infiltrated India from Myanmar via Mizoram before being detained at several airports across the country.

Special Judge Prashant Sharma emphasized the undercover nature of such criminal conspiracies, acknowledging the importance of allowing NIA comprehensive interrogation to trace the broader network and funding sources involved. The court also highlighted the necessity of evaluating the data on confiscated devices.

Addressing national security concerns, the court underscored the gravity of allegations under Section 18 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act. The investigation aims to unravel links between these foreign nationals and proscribed insurgent groups in India, essential for safeguarding the nation's interests.

(With inputs from agencies.)