New Delhi, March 20, 2026: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has dismantled a clandestine network of foreign nationals, raising serious national security concerns. American citizen Matthew VanDyke and six Ukrainians were arrested for allegedly entering India under the guise of documentary filmmakers to conduct covert operations. The group, which includes six Ukrainian mercenaries, is accused of providing drone warfare training to ethnic armed groups in Myanmar.

The investigation unfolded on March 13, when Matthew VanDyke was detained by immigration officials at Kolkata’s Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport following suspicions. He was subsequently handed over to the NIA. On the same day, six Ukrainian nationals were apprehended at the Lucknow and Delhi airports. When produced before the Patiala House Court in Delhi on March 15, the deep-rooted nature of the case came to light. Although the seven individuals entered India on tourist visas, they reportedly traveled to Myanmar for a secret mission.

According to the NIA, the accused first reached Guwahati in Assam and then illegally crossed the Myanmar border via Mizoram without the required Inner Line Permit (ILP). During their stay in Myanmar, they are alleged to have provided drone tactical training, assisted in arms supplies, and supported terrorist activities for local ethnic groups. They were caught at the airports while attempting to leave India after completing their operation. The court has granted 11 days of NIA custody for further interrogation.

Among the arrested, Matthew VanDyke is a controversial figure who has previously appeared in conflict zones such as Libya, Syria, Ukraine, and Venezuela. While he identifies as a documentary maker, war correspondent, and defense expert, some circles suspect ties to the CIA, while others identify him as a private mercenary. While the Ukrainian Embassy has filed a protest with the Indian Ministry of External Affairs regarding its citizens, the US Embassy has not yet provided a significant response. The case underscores major worries regarding border security and the misuse of the visa system. The next hearing is scheduled for March 27.

GangolliNews