KATHMANDU

The Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) of Nepal Police has decided to continue its investigation into the case involving the smuggling of over 60 kilos of gold into the country though it has already submitted the investigation report to the District Government Attorney Office.

CIB Chief and Additional Inspector General of Police, Kiran Bajracharya, said seven companies were suspected for their roles in the gold smuggling and to date only the investigation into gold smuggling by the Ready Traders has been completed. This incident is considered the organised crime.

The CIB has recommended prosecution in accordance with the Customs Act, Prevention of Organized Crime Act, Nepal Rastra Bank Act, National Penal Code, Nepal Citizenship Act, Passport Act, and the Immigration Act. The Government Attorney Office is preparing to present the case to the court within a couple of days.

Although seven companies were suspected of smuggling 362 kilograms of gold into the country, the police have confiscated only 60 kilograms and 716 grams. This has prompted the CIB to continue the investigation, as it is believed that the remaining quantity of gold has already been transported to destinations. So far, 33 individuals, including nine foreign nationals, have been apprehended in connection with the case, while 18 are still at large.

The arrestees include customs officials, customs agents, gold traders, as well as Indian and Chinese nationals. The Revenue Investigation Department had seized the smuggled gold, weighing 60 kilograms and 716 grams, from the local Sinamangal area on July 19.