Pune: ATS Probes Nashik Connections In DRDO Lab Director Kurulkar’s Espionage Case
Pune, 17th May 2023: The investigation into the case of DRDO lab Director Dr Pradeep Kurulkar being ensnared in a honey trap by Pakistani intelligence has taken a new turn as it reaches Nashik. The Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) is meticulously examining the case, and two suspicious mobile numbers in Nashik have come under scrutiny for technical verification.
Dr Kurulkar (59), residing in Kothrud, held the position of director at the Pune-based DRDO lab Research & Development Establishment (Engineers) (R&DE(Engrs)) in Kalas, Vishrantwadi. He fell victim to a female Pakistani spy who identified herself as Zara Dasgupta. By exploiting Kurulkar’s desire for physical relations with young girls, Dasgupta managed to extract confidential information from him. When Kurulkar blocked Dasgupta’s mobile number, she resurfaced using a different number.
Now investigation has revealed that the second mobile number was registered in Nagpur and was traced back to Corporal Nikhil Shende, a non-commissioned officer stationed at the Indian Air Force base in Bangalore.
As the Kurulkar case unfolds, two additional suspect mobile numbers have emerged, both originating from Nashik. The ATS team in Nashik has initiated an investigation into the users of these numbers. The laptop and mobile device seized from Kurulkar have undergone technical analysis, leading to the discovery of the two mobile numbers associated with Nashik.
Thus far, statements have been recorded from eight individuals in connection with the Kurulkar case. Social media interactions have been thoroughly examined, and Kurulkar’s mobile number and its related data have been scrutinized. Additionally, an officer from (R&DE(Engrs)) has provided a statement, and the testimonies of three officials and one person from Kurulkar’s office have also been documented.
According to officials, Kurulkar and the ISI agent had come in contact around June last year. Based on a complaint from DRDO, an FIR was registered by ATS and Dr Kurulkar was arrested on May 3. After the expiry of his police custody remand, a special court remanded him to judicial custody yesterday. He is now lodged in Yerwada Central Jail.
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