Investigation Launched into Money Laundering Allegations Against Former Prime Ministers KP Sharma Oli, Sher Bahadur Deuba, and Prachanda
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An investigation into money laundering allegations has been initiated against three former prime ministers of Nepal — KP Sharma Oli, Sher Bahadur Deuba, and Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda,’ according to reports from multiple media outlets.
Leading online news platforms have cited various sources to present this information.
The Money Laundering Investigation Department has reportedly issued a letter seeking assistance from the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) of the Nepal Police.
These reports emerged shortly after the arrest of former Energy Minister and Nepali Congress leader Deepak Khadka.
The CIB carried out the arrest of Leader Khadka.
CIB Chief Manoj Kumar KC Claims ‘No Information’
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Home Minister Sudhan Gurung made the arrest warrant for Khadka public via Facebook.
The warrant states, “You are to be immediately arrested under investigation of money laundering offenses; hence, this arrest warrant has been issued.”
Former CIB Chief, Deputy Inspector General of Police Manoj Kumar KC, said they acted on a request for assistance from the Money Laundering Investigation Department regarding Khadka’s arrest.
“We provided assistance upon request from the Money Laundering Department,” he said.
The reports also claim that the department has sent letters to the CIB to initiate investigations against the three former prime ministers.
Accordingly, investigations into the assets and sources of income of these leaders have been launched following the letter.
However, CIB Chief Manoj Kumar KC stated, “I have been asked about this letter before, but I have no information regarding the letter concerning the three former prime ministers.”
‘Investigation Ongoing Since Earlier’
During the Gen Z movement, arson attacks were carried out at the residences of these three former prime ministers.
At that time, videos and photos were released alleging financial irregularities at Deuba and Prachanda’s residences.
Despite the investigation reportedly beginning, no official confirmation has been issued by any party.
The department’s Director and Information Officer Jitendra Adhikari, without naming anyone, said, “This matter has been under investigation for some time now.”
According to him, the department initiates investigations following complaints or information and this phase represents the initial stage.
The department requested CIB support after further investigation seemed necessary. However, Director Adhikari said, “Issuing letters to CIB or other such procedural steps relate to investigation officers or the investigation team and I am not informed about any such letter.”
He also conveyed that they are not made aware of these processes.
CIB spokesperson, Senior Superintendent of Police Shivkumar Shrestha, also responded that he had no knowledge on the matter.
Some officials, in informal conversations, said “disclosing information before outcomes in this sensitive and dynamic environment is risky.”
“Investigations should not be based on rumors targeting senior officials or leaders,” one official remarked. “In such scenarios, various reports and rumors can emerge. The current news should be seen in this context.”
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