Former provincial minister transferred to Kathmandu for investigation into human trafficking allegations

On By Pranco

Former Koshi Province Home and Law Minister Lilaballav Adhikari, who was arrested in Biratnagar earlier on Sunday on human trafficking charges, has been transferred to Kathmandu for further investigation. His arrest was allowed by the court today and he was subsequently escorted to Biratnagar airport by police.

Former provincial minister Adhikari found himself in controversy for his alleged involvement in a human trafficking ring that recently arranged fake identity documents for three young men trying to enter Japan. Adhikari and the youths were deported by Japanese immigration authorities last week, and while they were detained at Tribhuvan International Airport upon their return, Adhikari reportedly evaded investigation by using his ministerial ID.

The accused ex-minister and three others had traveled to Japan on the pretext of attending the “Culture at Heart” program in Tokyo organized by the Arts Council Tokyo from October 29 to November 3. It is alleged that Adhikari led the group with plans to exploit the event for human trafficking.

While Japanese immigration authorities expelled the group over suspicious documents, criticism arose after Adhikari avoided an immediate investigation. Evidence, including fake identity papers used by his associates, has since been seized by authorities, with Adhikari’s signature allegedly forged on some documents.

Adhikari has admitted to traveling under the influence of a people smuggling network and claims he was unaware of the criminal nature of the scheme until he reached Hong Kong. However, officials suspect that he only reported the matter to Nepalese authorities after Japanese immigration authorities denied his entry. The ongoing investigation by the Kathmandu District Police has also led to the arrest of other suspects involved in the network.

Adhikari had gone ahead with the trip despite warnings from Koshi Province Chief Minister Hikmat Karki against the unauthorized international travel.