In the ongoing investigation into the disappearance of Mamata Kafle, the Manassas Park police in Virginia conducted another search of the home she shared with her husband, Naresh Bhatt, and their daughter on Tuesday. According to Manassas Park Police Chief Mario Lugo, the investigation remains a priority, with assistance from federal partners, including the FBI, Secret Service, and police departments from Loudoun and Fairfax Counties.
Authorities are combing through various locations for evidence, though it remains unclear what, if anything, was discovered during the latest search. Police have suggested that additional charges may be brought against Naresh Bhatt, who is already in custody for allegedly concealing Mamata’s body. His next court appearance is scheduled for Thursday, August 29.
Thursday’s session will be a motion hearing, set for 9 a.m. in Courtroom 6 of the Prince William Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court. In a previous hearing on Monday, the court denied Naresh’s bond request, deeming him a flight risk and a danger to the community. Despite arguments from his lawyer that there was no solid evidence justifying his continued detention, the judge ruled against bail.
Prosecutors revealed disturbing new information on Monday, including evidence that Naresh had conducted internet searches months before Mamata’s disappearance, inquiring how soon he could remarry after his wife’s death. This, coupled with significant amounts of blood found in the couple’s bedroom and bathroom, has led investigators to suspect that Mamata may no longer be alive. Prosecutors are considering filing murder charges, even though Mamata’s body has not been found.
The defense argued that the case against Naresh is being driven by public pressure and media attention, but the prosecution countered with details of troubling internet search history and forensic evidence. While the blood found in the home has not yet been confirmed as Mamata’s, initial tests indicate it is human.
Naresh’s lawyer insisted that he had no plans to flee, noting that the recent sale of his Tesla and attempts to sell their house were simply efforts to secure funds for his family. However, prosecutors presented evidence suggesting a different narrative, including purchases of knives and cleaning supplies shortly before Mamata’s disappearance. Investigators believe these items may have been used to clean up the crime scene, although two of the knives remain missing.
Court documents allege that Naresh killed Mamata around July 30, 2024, at their home, and that significant digital and forensic evidence supports this claim. Naresh has been charged with a sixth-degree felony for concealing a body, which carries a sentence of 1 to 5 years in prison in Virginia. He was arrested last Thursday morning following a night search of the house.
Mamata and Naresh’s one-year-old daughter is currently in the care of the Department of Social Services. Police have stated that the child is safe and being looked after by an approved caregiver.
Mamata’s whereabouts remain unknown, and police have found no signs that she is alive. When officers first approached Naresh on August 2 to inquire about Mamata, who had been missing since July 31, he was reluctant to report her disappearance. It wasn’t until August 5 that Naresh officially reported her missing.
Kishor Panthi
View More PostsKishor Panthi is the founder and editor-in-chief of Khasokhas and NepYork. He is the author of three books, “Kampan,” "UNTRANSLATABLE" and “Zero Mile.” He writes about social issues, immigration, and politics.
