A boat repairman has been apprehended in Gujarat, India, for allegedly transmitting sensitive information regarding the movements of Indian Coast Guard vessels to operatives in Pakistan, according to official statements released on Friday. The arrest of Dipesh Gohil, who resides in the village of Arambhada in the Dev Bhoomi Dwarka district, was executed by the Gujarat Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS). He faces serious charges that include criminal conspiracy and waging war against the government, under specific sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.
Officials disclosed that Gohil was approached by a Pakistani agent identified as Sahima via Facebook. The agent purportedly claimed association with the Pakistani Navy and offered Gohil a payment of INR 200 per day (approximately $2.30) in exchange for information regarding the names and numbers of Coast Guard vessels docked at the Okha jetty, as well as their operational movements. Investigations revealed that Gohil received nearly $500 over a period of seven months, with the funds being redirected to the bank accounts of three acquaintances, as Gohil himself did not possess a bank account.
Virjit Parmar, deputy superintendent of police for Gujarat ATS, stated that Gohil was fully aware of the illegal nature of his actions. “He understood what type of information he was sharing and who it was being sent to. His motivations appear to be financial, as he consistently supplied details regarding Coast Guard ships and their locations,” Parmar explained.
The strategic significance of Okha further complicates the situation. Situated at the westernmost point of the Dev Bhoomi Dwarka district, Okha serves as a critical gateway to Beyt Dwarka Island. The port is highly important due to heavy maritime traffic, active fishing operations, and its proximity to the Pakistani coastline. Compounding these factors is the presence of an Indian Navy base in the vicinity, making the movement of security assets within the region of paramount concern.
Gohil had been servicing boats at the Okha site for three years prior to his arrest, emphasizing that this incident raises alarm about vulnerabilities in sensitive maritime locations. The unfolding situation highlights the ongoing risks posed by espionage and the need for heightened vigilance regarding the security of strategic assets along India’s coastline.
