KATHMANDU, Nepal — The Kathmandu Valley Crime Investigation Office, Teku has arrested Raj Prakash Shrestha and Harichandra Bhujel for their involvement in illegal online gambling and betting activities.
Raj Prakash Shrestha, 48, from Ramechhap (Khandadevi Rural Municipality-9), now residing in Bafal, Kathmandu, and Harichandra Bhujel, 23, from Nuwakot (Bidur Municipality-13), currently living in Sohrakhutte, Kathmandu, are accused of conducting illegal gambling and betting through a website called Mantra108. The activities reportedly involved transactions amounting to over Rs 24 million.
The arrests came after a tip-off about illegal gambling activities, cryptocurrency trading, and betting applications operating in the area. Police raided the suspects’ location, seizing Rs 90,000 in cash, 4 mobile phones, 1 computer CPU, 59 SIM cards, 27 ATM cards, and 7 checkbooks.
Both suspects have been handed over to the District Police Range, Kathmandu for further investigation and legal proceedings.
Authorities Remind Public of Legal Risks
Online gambling and betting are illegal under Nepali law and can result in severe legal consequences. Authorities have warned the public against engaging in such activities, reminding everyone that violations of the law could lead to criminal charges and financial penalties.
