Indian authorities have arrested seven foreign nationals — one American and six Ukrainians — on charges of conspiring to carry out terrorist activities in an alleged plot involving training and operations linked to Myanmar. The group includes the American Matthew Aaron Van Dyke and the Ukrainians Hurba Petro, Slyviak Taras, Ivan Sukmanovskyi, Stefankiv Marian, Honcharuk Maksim, and Kaminskyi Viktor.
The arrests were made by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) in operations across multiple cities, including Delhi, Lucknow and Kolkata, according to officials familiar with the case.
The individuals have been charged under India’s Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), which deals with terrorism-related offences. Investigators allege that the group was part of a broader conspiracy involving training, logistical coordination and potential support to armed groups operating in and around the India–Myanmar border region.
According to the NIA’s submissions in court, the six Ukrainian nationals had entered India on tourist visas and travelled to northeastern states, including Assam and Mizoram. Authorities allege that they subsequently crossed into Myanmar without the required permissions. Investigators believe the group was seeking to establish contact with Myanmar-based ethnic armed organisations.
Officials have also alleged that the accused were involved in the movement and use of drones and related technology. The investigation is examining claims that drone equipment was sourced from Europe and that training in drone operation and assembly may have been provided or planned. Authorities say such capabilities could potentially be used by armed groups in conflict areas.
The American national was detained at Kolkata airport, while the Ukrainian nationals were apprehended at airports in Delhi and Lucknow. All seven have been remanded to NIA custody as the investigation continues.
Officials said electronic devices and communication records seized during the arrests are being analysed to determine the extent of the alleged network, including funding sources and possible international links. Further arrests have not been ruled out.
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