Nepal Police’s CIB to Intensify Gold Smuggling Investigation

The Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) of the Nepal Police is gearing up to launch a comprehensive investigation into a major gold smuggling case involving approximately 100 kilograms of gold. The directive for the intensified probe comes from Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’, amidst concerns over organized and inter-country crime.

Inspector General of Police (IGP) Basanta Bahadur Kunwar confirmed that the CIB’s investigation will commence once the necessary files are received from the investigation department. The case came to the forefront on July 19 when the department seized the substantial quantity of gold in front of the Customs Office at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA).

Initially, the department itself carried out investigations with the assistance of a Superintendent of Police (SP), leading to the arrest of 18 individuals involved in the gold smuggling. However, the investigation is set to advance further, with consultation from the office of the Attorney General, focusing on potential financial crime aspects.

During a discussion with the Home Minister, security agencies’ chiefs, and relevant authorities, PM Dahal directed the authorities to entrust the CIB with further probing the case. The decision was motivated by the need to explore additional aspects of the investigation, particularly pertaining to financial crimes.

As the CIB takes over the investigation, hopes are high that a more comprehensive and rigorous examination will be conducted to bring all culprits to justice and shed light on the intricate networks involved in this illicit activity. The intensified efforts aim to curb the menace of gold smuggling and uphold the integrity of Nepal’s borders.