The Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) of the Nepal Police has apprehended Sherab Gyalmo, a Nepali citizen of Tibetan descent, also known as Sonam Gurung, in possession of illicit goods, including six kilograms of gold and NPR 4.8 million in cash. Superintendent of Police and Bureau Spokesperson Hobindra Bogati revealed that the 32-year-old Gyalmo was detained on Sunday night from Tinchuli in Bouddha, Kathmandu-6. The arrest is linked to an ongoing investigation into a 60-kilogram gold smuggling case initiated in July 2023.
In parallel operations, two individuals have been detained in New Delhi, India, on charges related to gold smuggling, with plans underway to repatriate them to Nepal. The CIB disclosed that the second phase of the probe into the 60-kilogram gold smuggling is nearing completion. Authorities suspect that the seized six kilograms of gold may have been trafficked through land routes.
The CIB is concurrently investigating another case involving nine kilograms of gold smuggled via vape devices, as well as the 60 kilograms confiscated by the Department of Revenue Investigation. To date, a total of 20 individuals have been apprehended in connection with these cases, with seven facing charges related to digital gold transactions and 13 implicated in gold smuggling activities. Efforts are being made to bring two individuals from New Delhi to Kathmandu for further legal proceedings.
Among those arrested are individuals from various locations, including Maharashtra, India. Additionally, individuals associated with companies like Paywell Pvt. Ltd. and Sajilo Pay are also under CIB custody. The investigation continues, with authorities committed to curbing illicit activities related to gold trafficking within the country.
