Nepal unrest: 27 arrested during violent Gen Z-led protests

Kathmandu: Twenty-seven individuals involved in looting, arson, and other violent acts during the ongoing Gen Z-led protests across Nepal, including in Kathmandu, have been arrested by the Nepalese Army, The Himalayan Times reported.

The arrests took place between 10 pm on Tuesday and 10 am on Wednesday during a nationwide deployment of forces. Authorities recovered NRs 3.37 million in stolen cash in Kathmandu’s Gausala-Chabahil-Bouddha corridor. Security forces also seized 31 firearms, along with magazines and ammunition, confiscating 23 from Kathmandu and eight from Pokhara.

Injuries and hospital treatment
According to the Army, 23 Nepal Police officers and three civilians injured in the clashes are receiving treatment at military hospitals. Security personnel also deployed three fire trucks to extinguish fires set during the unrest.

Curfew and prohibitory orders
The Army announced prohibitory orders and a nationwide curfew in response to the protests. Prohibitory orders remain in effect until 5:00 pm today, after which a curfew will continue from 6:00 am on Thursday, September 11. The Army said further decisions will be based on the evolving security situation.

Army statement on unrest
In its statement, the Army expressed appreciation for public cooperation in maintaining order and offered condolences for the loss of life and property. It warned that “lawless individuals and groups” had infiltrated the protest, engaging in criminal acts such as arson, looting, violent assaults, and attempted rape.

Widespread destruction in Kathmandu
The Hilton Hotel in Kathmandu was left charred after being set on fire. ‘Sital Niwas’, the Rashtrapati Bhawan, was vandalised and torched. The residence of former Prime Minister Jhalanath Khanal was also set on fire, leading to the death of his wife, Rajyalaxmi Chitrakar, who succumbed to burn injuries during treatment. Smoke continues to rise from Kantipur Media Group’s headquarters, which was set ablaze on Tuesday.

Prime Minister Oli resigns
Amid escalating unrest, Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli resigned from his post on Tuesday.

Protests triggered by social media ban
The protests, which began on September 8 in Kathmandu, Pokhara, Butwal, and Birgunj, erupted after the government banned major social media platforms, citing tax revenue and cybersecurity concerns. Protesters are demanding an end to corruption and favouritism in governance, greater accountability and transparency, and the revocation of the social media ban, which they see as suppression of free speech.

Casualties reported
At least 19 people have been killed and 500 injured in clashes with security forces. Curfews have been imposed in several cities, including Kathmandu, to control the situation.

(With ANI Inputs)