DistantNews
🇳🇵 Nepal /Crime & Justice

Interpol questioned Nepal’s Deuba case. Authorities have now responded

From Kathmandu Post · (1h ago) English

Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

TLDR

  • Nepal is intensifying efforts to secure an Interpol red notice against former prime minister Sher Bahadur Deuba and his wife, Arzu Rana Deuba, by submitting additional evidence.
  • Interpol had previously sought clarification on the money laundering case, questioning if it involved offenses beyond the initial scope and requesting specific legal documents.
  • Nepali authorities have now provided further details, including evidence related to an investigation into burnt foreign currency notes, and have obtained arrest warrants from a local court.

The Kathmandu Post reports on the renewed push by Nepali authorities to obtain an Interpol red notice against former Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba and his wife, Arzu Rana Deuba. This development follows Interpol's queries regarding the evidence submitted in a money laundering investigation. The international police body had requested further clarification, specifically questioning the nature of the offense and seeking additional legal and procedural documents, including court orders.

After the DMLI requested assistance in issuing a red notice, the police forwarded the relevant documents to Interpol.

— a senior police officerA senior police officer familiar with the process explained the steps taken by Nepali authorities in response to Interpol's request.

In response, Nepali officials have submitted more comprehensive information to Interpol's headquarters. This includes details concerning an investigation into burnt foreign currency notes discovered at the Deuba residence, alongside supporting legal records. The National Central Bureau in Kathmandu has confirmed forwarding these details after Interpol sought clarification on the case.

However, around a week ago, Interpol sought further clarification regarding the nature of the offence and supporting legal procedures. The queries were then sent back to the department for additional details.

— a senior police officerThe same police officer elaborated on Interpol's specific requests for more information regarding the case.

This situation highlights the procedural complexities involved in international law enforcement cooperation. Initially, the request for a red notice reportedly lacked certain procedural requirements, such as a court-approved arrest warrant. Following Interpol's queries, Nepali authorities approached the court, which subsequently issued arrest warrants against the Deuba couple. The article also notes a change in leadership at the Department of Money Laundering Investigation, suggesting potential dissatisfaction with the handling of high-profile cases. While authorities believe the Deubas are in Hong Kong, their whereabouts remain unconfirmed publicly.

This investigation did not originate through the police system, so there may initially have been some misunderstanding regarding the required procedures.

— a senior police officerThe officer explained potential procedural misunderstandings that may have led to Interpol's initial queries.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Kathmandu Post. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

More Stories

From Our Blog