Kathmandu: The Kathmandu District Court has granted permission to detain Nepali Congress leader and former minister Deepak Khadka for seven days for investigation in a money laundering case.

Khadka, who was arrested in connection with the alleged offense, was presented before the court on Sunday for an extension of his remand. According to Information Officer Deepak Kumar Shrestha, the court approved a seven-day custody period effective from Sunday, in line with Section 17 (4) of the Money Laundering Prevention Act, 2064.

Although Khadka’s statement recording process began on Sunday, the court authorized his continued detention to facilitate further investigation, including examination of evidence and completion of necessary legal procedures.

The court order stated that the request made by the Money Laundering Investigation Department was deemed reasonable, granting permission to keep Khadka in custody to carry out tasks as specified under the law from 15.12.2082.

The department is currently investigating cash allegedly found in a burnt condition at Khadka’s residence. Authorities have collected remnants of burnt currency notes and ashes from the house and surrounding areas as part of the ongoing probe.