Former Minister Adhikari transferred to Kathmandu for investigation into human trafficking charges

Former Home and Law Minister of Koshi State Lilaballav Adhikari, who was arrested in Biratnagar on Sunday for alleged human trafficking, has been transferred to Kathmandu for further investigation. His arrest was approved by the court today and he was subsequently escorted to Biratnagar Airport by the police.

Former minister Adhikari recently faced criticism for his alleged involvement in a human trafficking ring that forged identity documents for three young men trying to enter Japan. The teenagers were deported by Japanese immigration authorities last week and detained at Tribhuvan International Airport upon their return, while Adhikari reportedly evaded investigation by using his ministerial ID.

The accused former minister and three others, including Kanchan Devkota of Rasuwa and Dawa Sherpa and Janak Rai rum Khotang, had traveled to Japan on the pretext of participating in the “Culture at the Heart” program organized by the Tokyo Arts Council in Tokyo from 29 onwards . From October to November 3. Adhikari allegedly led the group with plans to exploit the incident for human trafficking purposes.

Criticism arose after Adhikari refrained from immediately investigating, while Japanese immigration authorities turned away the group due to questionable documents. Evidence, including fake identity documents used by his associates, has since been seized by authorities, and Adhikari’s signature was allegedly forged on some documents.

Adhikari admitted traveling under the influence of a smuggling network and claimed he was unaware of the criminal nature of the arrangement until he reached Hong Kong. However, authorities suspect that he reported the matter to Nepalese authorities only after he refused entry to Japanese immigrants. Ongoing investigation by the Kathmandu District Police also led to the arrest of other suspects involved in the network.

Adhikari had continued his journey despite Koshi Chief Minister Hikmat Karki’s warnings against unauthorized international travel.