In a significant development in an ongoing espionage case, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has apprehended Rahul Gangal, a Canadian resident of Indian origin. The arrest is linked to the defence espionage case that has already resulted in the detention of freelance journalist Vivek Raghuvanshi and former Navy Commander Ashish Pathak in May.
Gangal's name surfaced during the investigation, which involves the alleged collection and dissemination of sensitive defence-related documents to foreign intelligence agencies. Acting on information suggesting Gangal's arrival in India on August 19, the CBI conducted surveillance and subsequently arrested him in Delhi on Monday. The agency was granted a four-day remand for further investigation.
Searches conducted at Gangal's premises led to the discovery of incriminating documents and digital devices. Upon scrutiny of these materials, it was revealed that Gangal was in possession of secret defence documents, some of which were allegedly shared with journalist Vivek Raghuvanshi, who was arrested on May 17.
Rahul Gangal, who took up permanent residency in Canada in 2019, had been working as a businessman. His background indicates that he completed an MBA from a reputable institute in Delhi and has been associated with a Germany-based company since 2013. While in Delhi, he was overseeing aerospace and defence operations before relocating to Toronto.
The case, registered by the CBI on December 9, 2022, has taken an international dimension with connections reaching foreign intelligence entities. A chargesheet was filed in July against Vivek Raghuvanshi and Ashish Pathak, both accused of violating the Official Secrets Act and engaging in related offences.
Raghuvanshi has been accused of illicitly gathering information on defence projects conducted by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and sharing them with foreign agencies. He is also alleged to have disclosed details about India's strategic preparedness, sensitive diplomatic negotiations, and information about upcoming procurements for the Indian armed forces.
The investigation has revealed a complex web of activities involving foreign entities, agents, and individuals.
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