In a significant breach of national security protocols, Kochi Harbour Police have arrested Mujeeb Rahman, a resident of Kozhikode, Kerala, for allegedly attempting to gather classified information about the operational location of India’s indigenously built aircraft carrier, INS Vikrant. This incident coincided with Operation Sindoor, India’s military response to terrorist bases in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir.
Police sources report that Rahman, disguising himself as an official named “Raghavan” from the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO), made a suspicious inquiry to the Kochi Naval Headquarters. He sought the precise operational details of the aircraft carrier, prompting naval officers to take immediate action. Recognizing the potential security threat, they coordinated with law enforcement, leading to the Indian Navy denying the request and instigating an investigation that ultimately resulted in Rahman’s arrest.
Rahman has a notable criminal background, including a murder charge filed against him in 2024. Investigators traced him through two mobile phone numbers used during his inquiries. A joint operation involving the Kochi Harbour Police, Indian Navy, and Intelligence Bureau (IB) culminated in his apprehension. Authorities are currently interrogating him to ascertain whether his motivations were personal or indicative of a larger espionage network.
A case has been filed against Rahman under Section 319(2) of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNS) and the Official Secrets Act of 1923. These laws address crimes that threaten national security and assist hostile entities. Given the heightened military readiness, authorities are treating the case with exceptional seriousness.
This arrest comes on the heels of the devastating Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, 2025, which claimed the lives of 26 civilians and prompted India’s missile strike operation across the border. The importance of military assets like INS Vikrant in India’s defense strategy underscores the gravity of any attempts to compromise their security, leading to stringent legal and investigative actions.
Additionally, in a related effort to ensure the safety of citizens, the Kerala government, through its Non-Resident Keralites Affairs (NORKA) department, has facilitated the return of 75 Malayali students from sensitive areas such as Jammu, Rajasthan, and Punjab, amidst rising concerns over regional instability.
Ongoing investigations are examining Rahman’s history and any potential connections to foreign intelligence agencies. Officials have reiterated their unwavering commitment to protecting strategic military infrastructure and have issued warnings of enhanced vigilance in light of current geopolitical tensions.
