KATHMANDU, April 9: The Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority (CIAA) has moved to file a corruption case against former Speaker Krishna Bahadur Mahara in connection with the gold smuggling case involving electronic cigarettes (vapes).
CIAA officials have reached the Special Court with the case file, and the process of verifying documents is currently underway, according to sources at the court.
China congratulated Speaker Mahara
The anti-graft body decided to proceed with the case after investigations revealed alleged links between Mahara and Chinese nationals involved in smuggling gold concealed inside vapes.
The smuggling network came to light in 2022 when customs officials intercepted a consignment in which a Chinese group attempted to bring gold into Nepal hidden inside electronic cigarette devices. Further investigation later indicated the involvement of Mahara and his son Rahul.
The CIAA has not yet disclosed details regarding the specific charges or the amount involved in the case.
