Gold smuggling probe could be affected due to political ties: Shekhar Koirala

KATHMANDU: Nepali Congress leader Dr. Shekhar Koirala has expressed concerns about the lack of a thorough investigation into the 100 kg gold smuggling case. He said that the investigation is likely to be hindered due to the involvement of political leaders.

Speaking at a program in Kathmandu on Thursday, Koirala pointed out that similar to the Bhutanese refugee and Lalita Niwas scams, the gold smuggling investigation might be influenced due to involvement of some political leaders. “The recent smuggling case came to light while another gold smuggling case involving political leaders was grabbing media headlines. More such cases can emerge in the future,” he added.

Koirala also said that the recent gold smuggling incident has exposed loopholes in the country’s security system. “Isn’t it surprising that the Department of Revenue Investigation is handling the case instead of involving the Crime Investigation Bureau of Nepal Police?” he questioned.

He also shed light on the lack of transparency among top political leaders when it comes to addressing serious incidents. “Whenever serious incidents happen, senior leaders convene to discuss such matters. But the public remains uninformed about the decisions taken during these meetings,” he added.

Koirala criticized the UML for obstructing House proceedings over the 100 kg gold smuggling issue. “They should expose people involved in the incident in parliament if they have proof,” Koirala said. “Lawmakers of ruling parties could also speak about the case in parliament.”