In 2020, Australia took the decision to expel two Indian spies who were allegedly involved in attempting to acquire confidential information regarding sensitive defense projects and airport security.
This information was reported by various Australian media outlets, including The Australian and The Sydney Morning Herald.
However, the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) did not provide any specific details regarding the number of spies expelled.
Indian officials have not yet commented on these reports from the Australian media. According to the ABC report, the Indian spies were discovered while attempting to steal secrets related to defense projects, airport security, and classified information concerning Australia’s trade relationships.
Additionally, the report stated that the so-called foreign “nest of spies,” which was dismantled by the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO) in 2020, was also involved in closely monitoring the Indian community residing in Australia and establishing close connections with current and former politicians.
These revelations come shortly after The Washington Post identified an Indian RAW official who was allegedly involved in a plot to assassinate Sikh extremist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun on American soil in the previous year.
On April 30, India responded to The Washington Post report, stating that it contained unwarranted and unsubstantiated allegations.
The report from The Washington Post also mentioned that two RAW officers were expelled from Australia in 2020.
The ABC report highlighted that ASIO Director-General Mike Burgess hinted at the existence of this spy ring during his annual threat assessment in 2021, but he did not disclose the country responsible for these activities.
According to the report, Mr. Burgess stated during his speech in March 2021 at ASIO’s headquarters in Canberra that the spies had developed targeted relationships with current and former politicians, a foreign embassy, and a state police service.
They also closely monitored their own country’s diaspora community and attempted to obtain classified information regarding Australia’s trade relationships.
According to the ABC report, Mr. Burgess further elaborated on the successful efforts of the “nest of spies” in cultivating and enlisting an individual who possessed an Australian government security clearance. This individual had privileged access to confidential information regarding defense technology.
