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🇳🇵 Nepal /Technology

Nepal police release 774 electric vehicles after import probe

From Kathmandu Post · () English

Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Named sources Outcome reported
  • Nepal's Armed Police Force released 774 impounded electric vehicles to importers after coordinating with the Finance Ministry.
  • The vehicles were seized amid an investigation into imports via the Korala border point, prompted by concerns over tax rate changes announced in the federal budget.
  • An investigation committee is examining whether the imports complied with laws and procedures, as importers maintain they followed existing regulations.

Nepal's Armed Police Force (APF) has returned 774 electric vehicles to importers, following coordination with the Ministry of Finance. The vehicles were initially impounded as authorities investigated imports through the Korala border crossing with China.

Deputy Inspector General Netra Bahadur Karki, APF spokesperson, confirmed the vehicles were released on Saturday. The seizure occurred after authorities launched checks on vehicles imported via the Korala point, with locations including Kaski, Parbat, and Mustang affected. Mustang Customs Office chief Bidur Chudal stated that vehicles completing customs procedures were allowed to proceed.

The Ministry of Finance established an investigation committee, led by under-secretary Bhupalraj Shakya, to examine compliance with laws and procedures. This probe follows allegations that importers rushed large numbers of EVs into the country before anticipated tax rate changes in the federal budget. Customs officials noted 649 units cleared Mustang Customs between May 6 and May 27, shortly before the budget's May 29 presentation. Importers assert all vehicles were brought in under valid documentation and existing regulations.

Those that had already cleared customs and completed legal processes were released to their owners.

— Bidur ChudalMustang Customs Office chief Bidur Chudal explained the criteria for releasing the impounded vehicles.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Kathmandu Post in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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