NIA detains 6 Ukrainians, American for illegal entry in Mizoram

Seven foreign nationals, six Ukrainians and one American, have been detained by Indian authorities on allegations of involvement in activities linked to terrorism, including illegal entry into restricted areas in Mizoram, unauthorised cross-border movement into Myanmar, training of ethnic armed groups, and facilitating the movement of drone consignments from Europe to insurgent-linked networks.

According to investigators, the arrests were carried out in a coordinated operation across multiple airports. The American national, identified as Matthew Aaron Van Dyke, was detained at Kolkata airport, while three Ukrainians were held at Lucknow airport and three others at Delhi airport. All seven were later brought to Delhi and produced before a magistrate, who initially granted three days’ custody, which was subsequently extended until March 27.

The National Investigation Agency (NIA), in its court submissions, stated that the six Ukrainians were part of a larger group of 14 individuals who had entered India on tourist visas at different times and travelled to Guwahati. From there, they allegedly proceeded to Mizoram without obtaining the mandatory Restricted Area Permit (RAP) or Protected Area Permit (PAP). Officials indicated that it remains unclear at what stage the American national joined the group, Indian Express reported.

The agency further told the court that the group is believed to have crossed into Myanmar illegally with the objective of conducting pre-arranged training sessions for Myanmar-based Ethnic Armed Groups (EAGs). These groups were described as being involved in supporting insurgent organisations operating in India, particularly in areas such as drone warfare, operations, assembly, and jamming technologies, often targeting the Myanmar military junta.

Investigators also indicated that evidence points to the accused having facilitated multiple consignments of drones from Europe, which were allegedly delivered to individuals and groups operating in Mizoram.

During interrogation, the NIA claimed that the accused admitted to being in contact with unidentified armed individuals and to assisting in unlawful activities. The agency further stated that the suspects had travelled to Mizoram without proper documentation, crossed into Myanmar unlawfully, and conducted training sessions for EAGs on multiple occasions. They were also accused of illegally importing large quantities of drones routed through India for use by these groups.

According to the agency, these armed groups have been known to support banned insurgent organisations in India by supplying weapons, equipment, and training.

In its remand application, the NIA argued that continued custody of the accused is necessary to gather further evidence, identify the broader conspiracy, and trace the network of associates involved. The agency also stated that it aims to determine the routes used for illegal cross-border movement and to identify other individuals who may emerge through analysis of digital data and social media accounts.

Officials added that mobile phones seized from the accused have been sent to CERT-In for forensic examination, with the aim of uncovering details about the alleged conspiracy, including its funding sources and possible masterminds behind the operation.

The case is being heard at the Patiala House Court, where the NIA was represented before Additional Sessions Judge Prashant Sharma of Patiala House Court, where the case is being argued by Special Public Prosecutor Rahul Tyagi, Public Prosecutor Anil Dabas, and advocates Jatin and Amit Rohilla.