Himal Hub/ The Department of Money Laundering Investigation has searched the home of Prabhu Shumsher Rana, brother of former Chief Justice Cholendra Shumsher Rana, as part of a wider investigation.Officials said investigators collected documents and electronic devices during the search. The department has also searched the homes of several other people linked to the investigation.
A senior department official said the names of those people have not been made public because doing so could affect the investigation.The investigation is linked to allegations that Rana and others tried to influence court decisions in their favour. Authorities are now looking into the possible links between the people involved.
Rana detained last month
The case came into focus after police detained Prabhu Shumsher Rana on September 27.A team from the Kathmandu Valley Crime Investigation Office took him from his home at around 3 am, citing security concerns. He was released after about 12 hours.
A few days later, the Nepal Police Special Bureau detained Enam Sapkota at Tribhuvan International Airport. Police are investigating his alleged contact with Rana.
Authorities have not released full details of the case, but the investigation has now expanded to several individuals.
Dipak Bhatta also linked to case
Businessman Dipak Bhatta has also been linked to the investigation. Bhatta, who was being held at Nakkhu prison, has since been transferred to Sindhupalchok.
Police are investigating allegations that Bhatta and Rana were connected in an attempt to influence a court decision in Bhatta’s favour.Members of the Prime Minister’s Secretariat have also accused Rana of trying to help secure Bhatta’s release.The allegations are still under investigation. No court has found the individuals involved guilty.
Armed Police AIG suspended
The case has also involved Armed Police Force Additional Inspector General Banshiraj Dahal, who has been suspended.Home Ministry spokesperson Ananda Kafle said Dahal was suspended for allegedly leaking sensitive security information and violating official conduct.
The latest search by the money laundering authorities has added a financial aspect to the wider investigation. Investigators are examining the documents and electronic devices seized during the searches.Authorities have not yet said whether anyone will face formal money laundering charges.
The investigation is continuing, and further action will depend on the evidence collected by the authorities.
