Ukrainian and American Nationals Accused of Orchestrating Covert Activities in Mizoram with Cross-Border Links

 A high-stakes counter-terror operation by India’s National Investigation Agency (NIA) has led to the arrest of seven foreign nationals accused of running a cross-border drone and insurgency support network linked to Myanmar-based armed groups.

21 Mar 2026, New Delhi 

NIA officials during investigation and evidence collection as part of a multi-agency counter-terror operation targeting an international drone and insurgency network.

Summary

• Arrests: Seven foreign nationals (6 Ukrainians, 1 American) detained by NIA in a coordinated airport operation.
• Illegal Entry: Accused entered Mizoram without Restricted Area Permits and crossed into Myanmar unlawfully.
• Drone Supply Chain: Allegedly facilitated movement of drone consignments from Europe to insurgent-linked networks.
• Training Role: Conducted multiple sessions on drone warfare, assembly, and jamming techniques for ethnic armed groups.
• Security Threat: Links with insurgent groups raise concerns for India’s internal security.
• Investigation Ongoing: NIA examining digital evidence, funding sources, and wider conspiracy network.

The Operation and Arrests

In what investigators describe as a rare and coordinated crackdown, seven foreign nationals — six from Ukraine and one from the United States — were detained across multiple Indian airports and brought under the custody of the National Investigation Agency (NIA). The arrests unfolded simultaneously at Delhi, Lucknow, and Kolkata airports, reflecting the scale and urgency of the operation.

The accused have been identified as Matthew Aaron Van Dyke (US national), along with six Ukrainian nationals — Hurba Petro, Slyviak Taras, Ivan Sukmanovskyi, Stefankiv Marian, Honcharuk Maksim, and Kaminskyi Viktor. They have been charged under Section 18 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), a provision dealing with terrorist conspiracy.

According to investigators, the group entered India on tourist visas in a staggered manner but converged in the Northeast, particularly Guwahati, before moving toward Mizoram. Crucially, they allegedly bypassed mandatory Restricted Area Permits (RAP/PAP), raising immediate red flags about their intentions.

Drone Supply Chain and Cross-Border Training Network

The NIA’s findings paint a picture that sounds less like tourism and more like a low-budget spy thriller. The accused allegedly crossed illegally into Myanmar, where they conducted training sessions for Ethnic Armed Groups (EAGs). These groups are believed to have operational links with insurgent outfits active in India.

Investigators claim that the training included advanced drone warfare techniques — covering operation, assembly, and even countermeasures like jamming technology. If true, this isn’t just smuggling gadgets; it’s exporting tactical capability.

Even more concerning is the alleged supply chain. The NIA has indicated that multiple consignments of drones were sourced from Europe and routed through India into Myanmar. These drones were reportedly intended for use by armed groups targeting the Myanmar junta, but with spillover risks for Indian security given the existing insurgent linkages.

During interrogation, the accused allegedly admitted to being in contact with armed individuals carrying assault rifles, suggesting coordination with militant elements on the ground.

Ongoing Investigation and National Security Implications

The case is far from closed. The NIA has sought extended custody to trace the broader conspiracy, identify funding sources, and uncover additional collaborators who may still be active. Digital forensics is underway, with seized devices sent for analysis to uncover communication trails and operational planning.

Authorities are particularly focused on mapping the illegal entry routes into Myanmar and identifying the logistical backbone that enabled the movement of both personnel and drone consignments across borders.

The case is currently being heard at Delhi’s Patiala House Court, where prosecutors have emphasized the need to “unearth the mastermind” behind what appears to be a transnational network with potential implications for India’s internal security.