Nepali Congress leader Ramhari Khatiwada has raised serious concerns over the government’s inaction in identifying the real owner of Rs 250 million in illegal foreign currency seized from Tokha, Kathmandu, back in March.
nvn news
Mon May 19 2025
A Nepali Congress leader has raised serious concerns over the government’s inaction in identifying the real owner of Rs 250 million in illegal foreign currency seized from Tokha, Kathmandu, back in March. Speaking in the House of Representatives, Ramhari Khatiwada criticized the authorities for only arresting minor players like a driver and a businessman, while the mastermind remains untouched.
“A driver and a businessman got arrested, but who is really behind this?” Khatiwada asked. “Why are only small players punished, while the powerful ones go free? The government must reveal the full network behind this illegal activity.”
On March 17, police recovered Rs 250.29 million in illegal currency from Jhor, Tokha. The driver, Kusang Lama (also known as "Phuchche"), was arrested and remains in custody. Later, on March 21, the Department of Revenue Investigation named Narayan Paudel from Sindhupalchok as the alleged owner of the cash. Paudel is the elder brother of Rajkumar Paudel, who was previously linked to a 22-kg gold smuggling case in 2018.
Narayan Paudel reportedly has a criminal history, including involvement in illegal currency exchange and smuggling of red sandalwood. Despite this, Khatiwada claims authorities have not provided clear answers about the network or any political connections tied to the case.
Khatiwada has called on the government to thoroughly investigate and disclose everyone involved, especially those who might be using political influence or cross-border connections to escape justice.
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