IN Qatar, a court has issued a death sentence to eight Indian Navy veterans who stand accused of espionage-related to Qatar's submarine programme, reports Fort Lauderdale's Maritime Executive.
The eight Indian individuals were employed by Al Dahra, a defense consultancy firm engaged in the Qatari government's submarine acquisition initiative.
Among the accused, commander Purnendu Tiwari, who had previously commanded various Indian warships before retiring and was the managing director of Al Dahra, is noteworthy.
Mr Tiwari was also a recipient of India's prestigious Pravasi Bharatiya Samman, recognizing his contributions to strengthening bilateral relations with Qatar.
While the specific details of the case have not been publicly disclosed, the Financial Times reports that the allegations suggest that these individuals engaged in espionage activities on behalf of the Israeli government.
Notably, Al Dahra's online presence mysteriously disappeared shortly after the group's arrest in August 2022, as per Hindustan Times.
'We are deeply shocked by the verdict of death penalty and are awaiting the detailed judgment. We are in touch with the family members and the legal team, and we are exploring all legal options,' said India's foreign affairs ministry.
'We attach high importance to this case and have been following it closely. We will continue to extend all consular and legal assistance. We will also take up the verdict with Qatari authorities.'
SeaNews Turkey
The eight Indian individuals were employed by Al Dahra, a defense consultancy firm engaged in the Qatari government's submarine acquisition initiative.
Among the accused, commander Purnendu Tiwari, who had previously commanded various Indian warships before retiring and was the managing director of Al Dahra, is noteworthy.
Mr Tiwari was also a recipient of India's prestigious Pravasi Bharatiya Samman, recognizing his contributions to strengthening bilateral relations with Qatar.
While the specific details of the case have not been publicly disclosed, the Financial Times reports that the allegations suggest that these individuals engaged in espionage activities on behalf of the Israeli government.
Notably, Al Dahra's online presence mysteriously disappeared shortly after the group's arrest in August 2022, as per Hindustan Times.
'We are deeply shocked by the verdict of death penalty and are awaiting the detailed judgment. We are in touch with the family members and the legal team, and we are exploring all legal options,' said India's foreign affairs ministry.
'We attach high importance to this case and have been following it closely. We will continue to extend all consular and legal assistance. We will also take up the verdict with Qatari authorities.'
SeaNews Turkey