Kathmandu: Nepal Police is currently conducting an investigation into a gold smuggling case involving prominent political leaders, including Maoist leaders Krishna Bahadur Mahara, Barshman Pun, Onsari Gharti, and former Vice President Nanda Bahadur Pun.

The probe was initiated following the arrest of Dawa Chiring, a Belgian citizen of Chinese origin, who is allegedly connected to the Maoist leaders and has been charged with gold smuggling. Distinct images of Chiring with the political figures have surfaced on social media, prompting suspicions about their involvement.

Dawa Chiring holds dual citizenship in Nepal and Belgium and has been residing in Nepal for an extended period, owning a hotel in Kathmandu. According to police reports, they believe Chiring has been engaged in smuggling gold into Nepal for several years, using his political connections to evade detection. The investigation is centered on determining whether the Maoist leaders were aware of his illegal activities and whether they facilitated or benefited from the smuggling.

While the investigation is ongoing, the Maoist leaders have vehemently denied any involvement in the gold smuggling case and have asserted their cooperation with the police's inquiries. The Revenue Investigation Department of the Nepal Police, equipped with a team of skilled investigators specialized in handling financial crimes, is leading the inquiry.

The investigation is expected to be a meticulous process, likely to span several months, during which the police will interview numerous witnesses and gather substantial evidence before considering any charges.

The case has raised serious concerns about the potential complicity of politicians in criminal activities, casting a shadow on the integrity of political figures in the country. As the matter unfolds, the public and authorities await further developments to ascertain the truth behind the allegations and the extent of any potential political involvement in the gold smuggling scheme.