New Delhi: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has arrested American national Matthew VanDyke, accused of providing training to militant groups in drone warfare and weapons use along India’s borders.
VanDyke, described as a controversial security analyst and former documentary filmmaker, was detained at Kolkata airport. Along with him, six Ukrainian nationals were also arrested from different locations, including Lucknow and Delhi.
According to NIA sources, VanDyke is the founder of a military contracting firm, Sons of Liberty International, which allegedly provided tactical training and strategic support to armed groups in conflict zones. He had earlier gained international attention during the 2011 Libyan civil war, where he was captured while fighting alongside rebel forces.
Investigators allege that VanDyke and his associates illegally entered restricted areas and trained armed groups, particularly in Myanmar, in advanced drone warfare techniques. The group is also accused of supporting banned organizations in India.
The arrested Ukrainian nationals reportedly entered India on tourist visas and later traveled to Mizoram before illegally crossing into Myanmar. Authorities suspect that drones were smuggled from Europe into Myanmar via India for use by armed groups.
All seven accused were produced before the Patiala House Court in Delhi. The NIA sought 15 days of custody for further investigation, and the court granted 11 days. They are scheduled to be produced again on March 27.
Officials are currently examining seized mobile phones and gathering evidence to uncover the full extent of the network, including possible local links within India and the routes used for smuggling drones.
The investigation also follows earlier warnings from Mizoram authorities about foreign individuals entering Myanmar through the state to train armed groups.
The case raises serious concerns over cross-border militant activities and the misuse of advanced technologies like drones in regional conflicts.
