Kathmandu, Nepal – The Kathmandu District Police Range (Jilla Praharis Parisar, Kathmandu), the capital’s primary law enforcement agency, arrested 250 individuals in a 24-hour sweep operation on Friday, October 2, 2026. The arrests were conducted as part of the ongoing ‘Safe Kathmandu Campaign’, aimed at enhancing public safety and order.
SP Dan Bahadur Thapa, spokesperson and operation commander for the Kathmandu District Police Range, confirmed the arrests. He stated that among those detained from various locations across Kathmandu, 227 were men and 23 were women.
The operation specifically targeted individuals with known criminal backgrounds, repeat offenders, those involved in public disturbances, and people disrupting public peace. This proactive approach is a key component of the ‘Safe Kathmandu Campaign’.
Campaign targets crime and disorder
The Kathmandu District Police Range regularly conducts such extensive sweep operations under the ‘Safe Kathmandu Campaign’ to significantly reduce crime rates and maintain a stable law and order situation throughout the capital.
This recent crackdown follows similar efforts. For instance, in May/June 2083 (BS), a major sweep operation resulted in the detention of 1,410 individuals for various offenses. More recently, between September 22-23, 2026 (Assoj 6-7), a 24-hour period saw 121 arrests for public misconduct, theft, robbery, touting, and hooliganism.
In a related initiative, a special campaign titled ‘Safe Thamel, ‘Jaaney Hoina?’?’ was launched in Thamel, Kathmandu’s prominent tourist area. On October 1, 2026 (Assoj 15), this operation led to the detention of 31 individuals for engaging in public indecency, encouraging illegal drug and sexual activities, and operating as unauthorized touts.
Legal proceedings underway
Police officials have stated that further investigation and legal action will be initiated against the 250 individuals arrested during the latest sweep.
Historically, individuals apprehended in similar operations have faced legal consequences ranging from fines and imprisonment to deportation, depending on the severity and nature of their crimes. Investigations are also continuing for the 31 individuals detained in Thamel.
Specific details pending release
While the arrests were widespread, specific details regarding the exact locations within Kathmandu from which the 250 individuals were apprehended have not yet been made public. Furthermore, comprehensive information concerning the precise charges filed against them and the detailed legal proceedings initiated remains undisclosed.
The duration of the current phase of the ‘Safe Kathmandu Campaign’ and its specific, detailed objectives are also awaiting further clarification from the authorities.
