In a significant security incident during the heightened vigilance of Operation Sindoor, Kerala Police apprehended a man for falsely claiming to be a Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) official in an attempt to obtain sensitive information regarding India’s indigenous aircraft carrier, INS Vikrant.
The individual, identified as Mujeeb Rahman from Elathur in Kozhikode district, made a deceptive call to the Kochi Naval Base on the night of 9 May. Introducing himself as “Raghavan,” he alleged he was a PMO representative and inquired about the current position of INS Vikrant. Suspecting foul play, naval personnel declined to share any details and quickly alerted law enforcement.
Following this, a First Information Report (FIR) was filed at Harbour Police Station, and an investigation was launched. Kochi City Police Commissioner Putta Vimaladitya confirmed that after media reports began circulating, the accused switched off his mobile phone. However, investigators successfully tracked the number and took Mujeeb into custody on 12 May. He was transported to Kochi for further questioning by senior officials.
Mujeeb’s family stated that he has been receiving treatment for mental illness since 2021 and suggested his actions were influenced by online misinformation. According to them, he acted after reading unverified reports claiming that INS Vikrant had attacked Karachi port—rumours likely linked to disinformation campaigns amidst Operation Sindoor.
Commissioner Vimaladitya said a psychiatric evaluation would be conducted to determine Mujeeb’s mental health. Authorities are also scrutinizing his digital footprint—including phone records, emails, and social media activity—to assess whether the impersonation was an isolated act or connected to a broader agenda. The charges against him include impersonation and potential violations under the Official Secrets Act, given the nature of the information he sought.
The Indian Navy swiftly addressed the situation in an official statement, confirming that its internal security mechanisms flagged the suspicious call and immediately involved intelligence agencies. The Southern Naval Command has since been cooperating fully with the investigation.
“The Indian Navy remains vigilant against any subversive or espionage attempts to access sensitive information,” the Navy reiterated. “Operational security remains our top priority in safeguarding national interests.”
The incident has intensified discussions within the defence and intelligence circles as Operation Sindoor—India’s strategic maritime readiness initiative—progresses amid rising regional tensions. The attempted breach highlights the escalating risks of misinformation and the need for robust cyber and communication security protocols.
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