Delhi Police on Wednesday Issued detention orders for two British "plane-spotters" who Were caught for allegedly recording conversation between pilots And Air Traffic Control, even as it is yet to press charges against them.
The Foreigner Regional Registration Offices (FRRO) of the city issued the detention orders for the Britishers and the two would remain at the Lampur detention centre till verification process is complete, sources said here.
Investigators said they are exploring the possibility of booking Stephen Hampston (46) and Steve Martin (55) under the Indian Telegraph Act for their controversial act, which the Home Ministry had termed illegal.
The Britons, who are employed with Railways in UK, were confined to Radisson Hotel near the international airport here from Monday night after the hotel staff reported to police that they were suspicious about their activities.
"We are verifying their antecedents. We are examining all details. The hard disks of their laptops are being thoroughly examined. Only after a thorough inquiry, a decision to free or not will be taken. However, no charges have been pressed against so far," a senior police official said.
Union Home Ministry yesterday asked Delhi Police to find out if provisions of the Indian Telegraph Act were violated by the Britishers and if so, directed it to book the duo.
Sources said the authorities were now planning to book the duo under Section 25 of Indian Telegraph Act and Aircraft Rule of 1937.