The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) has confirmed the arrest of 11 Nepali nationals across various West Asian countries for allegedly spreading fake news and engaging in cybercrime related to the ongoing regional conflict. This development comes as the ministry manages a massive influx of rescue requests, with over 86,000 Nepalis currently registered for government assistance.
During a press conference held today, MoFA Spokesperson Lok Bahadur Poudel Chhetri revealed that the arrests took place in four countries: three in the UAE, four in Saudi Arabia, three in Qatar, and one in Oman. Authorities accuse the detainees of posting misleading photos and videos on social media platforms. Spokesperson Chhetri emphasized that West Asian nations are strictly cracking down on misinformation, with penalties ranging from imprisonment to deportation for those disrupting public order through digital platforms.
Simultaneously, the ministry’s online registration system has recorded 86,420 Nepalis seeking support. To streamline these efforts, MoFA has established hotline services in 10 Nepali missions abroad and formed ‘Rapid Response Teams’ in nine key locations. While the volume of emergency calls regarding unsafe conditions has recently dipped, the ministry remains focused on addressing four primary concerns: flight conditions in Kuwait, repatriation timelines, labor permit inquiries, and the management of citizens in transit.
A significant challenge remains the repatriation of the deceased. Due to persistent flight delays across the region, the bodies of 38 Nepali citizens are currently stranded in Oman, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Bahrain. MoFA confirmed that while nine bodies were successfully returned via Kuwait Airlines on April 1, the process for the remaining mortal remains is ongoing and remains a top priority for the government.
The ministry also provided an update on Amrit Jha, a 33-year-old Nepali citizen currently detained in Iran. The Iranian army apprehended Jha, an employee of Black Sea Marine LLC, near Bandar Abbas while he was transporting fuel. MoFA clarified that his arrest predates the recent escalation in conflict between Iran, Israel, and the United States. A local lawyer has visited Jha, who is reportedly safe, but his case is currently pending in district court. Spokesperson Chhetri stated that the ministry is in constant contact with Iranian authorities to monitor the legal proceedings and ensure Jha’s well-being.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs continues to urge all Nepali citizens living abroad to remain vigilant, adhere to local laws regarding social media usage, and stay in contact with their respective diplomatic missions during this period of regional instability.
