5 held for minor exploitation in spas & guesthouse
The operation was carried out by the Human Trafficking Investigation Bureau (HTIB) following intelligence about minors being exploited for sexual purposes.
KATHMANDU: Nepal Police have rescued eight minor girls and arrested five individuals involved in a human trafficking and sexual exploitation ring operating across spas, hotels, and entertainment venues in the Kathmandu Valley.
The operation was carried out by the Human Trafficking Investigation Bureau (HTIB) following intelligence about minors being exploited for sexual purposes.
According to HTIB spokesperson Deputy Superintendent of Police Bishwaraj Khadka, those arrested include 32-year-old Hemanta Shrestha from Budhanilkantha, Kathmandu; 40-year-old Gitakumari Acharya from Dudhouli, Sindhuli; 45-year-old Govinda Budhathoki from Kumakh, Salyan; 42-year-old Haribhakta Giri from Bajhang; and 49-year-old Bhim Bahadur Saud from Kailali.
Investigations reveal that the arrestee lured minors into forced prostitution and sexual abuse for financial gain.
The rescued girls were recovered from multiple locations, including Golden Spa in Thamel, Fire Lounge & Club in Chabahil, Lucky Spa in Bouddha, and Sudurpashchim Khajaghar and Khaptad Sudurpashchim Guesthouse in Mitranagar.
The bureau launched the operation after receiving reports of minors being exploited in dance bars, clubs, and guesthouses across Kathmandu.
Legal proceedings are underway under the Human Trafficking and Transportation (Control) Act. The arrested individuals have been remanded by the Kathmandu District Court for further investigation, the spokesperson added.
