Fiscal Nepal
First Business News Portal in English from Nepal
Sher Bahadur Arzu Deuba
KATHMANDU: A Kathmandu court has issued arrest warrants against former Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba and former Foreign Minister Arzu Rana Deuba in connection with an intensifying money laundering investigation, according to officials familiar with the development.
The warrants were issued Tuesday by the District Court Kathmandu following a request from the Department of Money Laundering Investigation, which has been probing alleged financial irregularities linked to the couple. Authorities say the warrants were necessary after both individuals failed to appear for questioning.
At the time of issuance, the Deuba couple were reportedly in Hong Kong, raising the likelihood of international legal procedures. Law enforcement officials indicate that Nepal Police, including the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB), may seek assistance from Interpol to issue a diffusion notice or Red Notice for their possible arrest and extradition.
The investigation into high-profile political figures gained momentum following directives from a government led by former Chief Justice Sushila Karki after the so-called “Gen Z movement,” which triggered broader anti-corruption actions. The probe has further accelerated under the current administration led by Prime Minister Balen Shah since its formation on March 26, 2026 (Chaitra 13, 2082 BS).
Earlier, on March 28, authorities arrested former Energy Minister Deepak Khadka as part of the same investigation, acting on the recommendation of the anti-money laundering department.
The ongoing probe reportedly extends to several top political figures, including former Prime Ministers KP Sharma Oli and Pushpa Kamal Dahal, signaling one of the most extensive anti-corruption crackdowns in Nepal’s recent political history.
Sources say the case against Deuba intensified after a fire incident at his Budhanilkantha residence during protests on September 10, 2025 (Bhadra 24, 2082 BS), where large amounts of cash were reportedly found burned. Investigators collected charred currency fragments and ash from the site, linking them to the broader money laundering case.
Authorities have also intervened to prevent demolition of the damaged residence, citing concerns over potential destruction of evidence. The District Administration Office Kathmandu has issued a stay order on any structural changes to the property.
With arrest warrants now in place, the focus shifts to international coordination as Nepal’s law enforcement agencies prepare to escalate the case beyond national borders.
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *
Comment *
Name *
Email *
Website
Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.
