Kathmandu: The government has clarified that there is no requirement to form a high-level probe committee to investigate the recent gold smuggling scam, as the investigation is already underway.

Communications Minister Rekha Sharma, speaking at a press meet organized by the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology, stated that the Department of Revenue Investigation is currently conducting the investigation into the smuggling of around 100 kg of gold from Tribhuvan International Airport.

Addressing media queries, Minister Sharma emphasized that the ongoing investigation by the Department under the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers is sufficient, and casting doubt on it is unwarranted. She assured that the incumbent government is committed to controlling irregularities, corruption, and smuggling.

Minister Sharma cited past instances where high-level probe committees were not formed to investigate gold smuggling cases and urged everyone to allow the ongoing Departmental investigation to reach its conclusion. She requested trust in the investigation process, noting that some individuals have already been arrested, and the probe is continuing.

While discussions are ongoing to resolve the obstruction of the Federal Parliament by the CPN (UML) party, which demands the formation of a high-level probe committee for the investigation, Minister Sharma expressed confidence that the obstruction would be resolved soon.

The Department seized around 100 kg of gold from Tribhuvan International Airport premises on July 19 and has since arrested 18 suspects in connection with the scam. The government remains focused on conducting a thorough investigation to uncover the root cause of the smuggling operation.