Kathmandu: The Nepal Police have arrested members of a gang involved in sending Nepali youth to fight for the Russian army.

The police team arrested 12 individuals after conducting an operation over several days in various locations in Kathmandu. These individuals were sending Nepali youths to Russia via India.

Among those arrested are Dipen Pariyar, Kshitij Giri, Subhash Lama, Manish Neupane, Rosal Maharjan, Hari Bahadur Bishwakarma, Ishwar Adhikari, Gokarna Aryal, Sujata Dahal, Santosh Adhikari, Santosh Nepal, and Drona Dangi.

According to Superintendent of Police Kumod Dhungel, Spokesman of District Police Range Kathmandu, the arrested individuals were involved in a range of activities, including recruiting youths, arranging travel documents, and obtaining visit visas.

The operation came to light after six Nepali youths who had joined the Russian army were confirmed dead in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Their families, devastated by the news, approached the authorities, raising suspicions about a recruitment racket.

The Nepal Police have launched a thorough investigation into the case, seeking to identify any additional members of the gang and uncover the extent of their operations. They have also urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities involving recruitment for foreign armies.

The arrest of this gang serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by unemployed youth in Nepal. The authorities have reiterated their commitment to cracking down on such illegal activities and protecting the safety of Nepali citizens.