27 Arrested, Illegal Weapons Seized as Nepali Army Expands Security Operations

Kathmandu — The Nepali Army has intensified security operations across the country, reporting multiple arrests, seizure of weapons, and recovery of looted property following the nationwide deployment of security forces on Tuesday night.

According to the Army, since the deployment of personnel at 10 PM on Bhadra 24, 2082 (September 9, 2025), security forces have taken 27 individuals into custody for engaging in vandalism, arson, looting, and violent activities in Kathmandu and other parts of the country. These groups had allegedly attempted to exploit the volatile situation to cause further harm to lives and property.

Firefighters were mobilized with three fire engines to control blazes set during acts of arson. In Kathmandu’s Gaushala–Chabahil–Bouddha area, security personnel recovered NPR 3.37 million looted during the disturbances.

The Army also confirmed the seizure of a significant cache of arms and ammunition, including 31 weapons (23 from Kathmandu and 8 from Pokhara), multiple magazines, and rounds of ammunition.

Meanwhile, 23 injured Nepal Police personnel and 3 civilians are currently receiving treatment in military hospitals, according to the statement.

In a separate appeal, the Army urged anyone in possession of unauthorized or stolen weapons, ammunition, or security equipment, particularly those looted during the ongoing “Gen Z–led protests”, to immediately hand them over to the nearest security authority. The Army cautioned that misuse of such weapons poses a grave risk to public safety, warning that failure to surrender them would result in strict legal action under existing laws.

The statement further requested citizens not to misuse security force uniforms and to avoid any activities that could escalate tensions. Furthermore, Nepali Army also requested to note that if such weapons and ammunition are found with anyone without being handed over, action will be taken in accordance with the prevailing laws.