The investigation surrounding YouTuber Jyoti Malhotra, accused of espionage in India, is intensifying. Haryana Police have recovered deleted data from her mobile phone during interrogations, uncovering noteworthy leads. Following forensic analysis, law enforcement has acquired evidence instrumental in unraveling this complex case.
Sourced from police insiders, the recovered data includes conversations with a Pakistan Intelligence Operative (PIO) linked to ISI, and a suspicious name 'Danish' associated with the Pakistani embassy in Delhi.
Awaiting Laptop Data
The police seized three mobile phones and a laptop from Jyoti Malhotra, all of which were sent to the laboratory situated in Madhuban, Karnal, for digital forensic examination. While mobile data and call details have been successfully retrieved, the laptop's data remains pending. Preliminary investigations indicate communication with Pakistani contacts via calls, WhatsApp chats, and video transfers found on her mobile.
Multiple State Police Involvement
This case extends beyond Haryana Police. Teams from Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, Maharashtra, and Uttar Pradesh have arrived in Hisar for interrogations with Jyoti. Goa and Uttar Pradesh Police have also reviewed locations featured on her YouTube channel. The interrogation centers on why these videos were shot, the intended audience, and the underlying motives. Investigative agencies suspect Jyoti's travels might not have been solely for YouTube content but possibly for gathering and sharing intelligence concerning India's security agencies.
Unfolding Secrets on Police Remand
Jyoti was granted a seven-day police remand by the court on May 22, which was later reduced to four days. Intensive interrogations and examinations of her electronic equipment occurred during this remand. It remains to be seen if the police will seek another remand or opt for judicial custody.
From Bank Accounts to International Travels
Agencies are delving into multiple layers of this case. Jyoti has traveled to countries like Pakistan, Dubai, Thailand, and China in recent years. Questions arise about the source of funds for these trips, considering her profile as a YouTuber. Police are scrutinizing the bank accounts of Jyoti and her father. Preliminary findings indicate suspicious transactions, and reports have been solicited from the banks regarding their legitimacy, sources, and intentions, which are yet to be received.
Involvement of SIT and Central Agencies
The investigation is being led by a Special Investigation Team (SIT) of Hisar Police, including DSP-level officers, SHO of Civil Line Police Station, officials from the Economic Offenses Wing, and other pertinent officers. Additionally, national central investigation agencies are actively involved, conducting thorough interrogations. Their aim is to unveil the entire network if linked to national security. Jyoti Malhotra's YouTube channel and social media platforms are under police surveillance to trace contacts across countries and scrutinize videos that may have disclosed sensitive information about India's critical regions.
