Security forces in Nepal have arrested 27 people accused of looting, arson, and other violent acts during the ongoing Gen Z-led protests, which have rocked Kathmandu and several other cities. The arrests took place between Tuesday night and Wednesday morning, according to The Himalayan Times.
Authorities said they recovered NPR 3.37 million in stolen cash in Kathmandu’s Gausala–Chabahil–Bouddha corridor. In addition, 31 firearms, along with magazines and ammunition, were seized—23 from Kathmandu and eight from Pokhara.
The Nepalese Army confirmed that 23 police personnel and three civilians injured in the clashes are receiving treatment at military hospitals.
Amid escalating violence, the Army has extended prohibitory orders and imposed a nationwide curfew until 5 pm today (Bhadra 25, 2082), which will continue from 6 am on Thursday, September 11 (Bhadra 26). Officials warned that “lawless groups” have infiltrated the movement, carrying out arson, looting, violent assaults, and even attempted rape.
The protests, which began on September 8, escalated after the government banned major social media platforms citing cybersecurity and tax concerns. Demonstrators are demanding an end to corruption, nepotism, and curbs on free speech.
The violence has left at least 19 people dead and 500 injured so far.
Several prominent buildings in Kathmandu were targeted during the unrest:
- The Hilton Hotel was set ablaze.
- Sital Niwas, the Presidential Palace, was vandalised and torched.
- The residence of former Prime Minister Jhalanath Khanal was attacked; his wife Rajyalaxmi Chitrakar succumbed to burn injuries.
- The Kantipur Media Group headquarters was also heavily damaged in a fire.
The turmoil has deepened following the resignation of Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli on Tuesday. Meanwhile, President Ram Chandra Paudel has called for dialogue with protesters to find a peaceful resolution to the crisis.
