Seventeen U.S. citizens have been arrested in Nepal on allegations of Christian proselytization. The individuals, who entered the country on tourist visas, were reportedly involved in religious activities under the pretense of volunteer work.
Authorities arrested them while they were participating in the construction of a building for the Prerna Kalyankari Society in the Deurali Sougat area of Dharan Sub-Metropolitan City-5, Sunsari. During the construction, they were allegedly promoting Christianity, according to police reports.
The Sunsari District Administration Office is currently investigating documents seized from the group and has transferred the case to the Immigration Department for further action. The investigation began after police discovered that the individuals had traveled to Dharan for the construction project.
Upon reviewing their passports, authorities discovered that they had entered Nepal on tourist visas but violated visa regulations by engaging in volunteer labor to build a church. Their passports have been confiscated pending further inquiry.
The arrested Americans initially entered Nepal on 15-day visas. Immigration officials are now assessing the severity of the offense and determining the appropriate legal measures.
Under Nepal’s Immigration Act, the individuals could face deportation and a ban on re-entering the country for a specified period. The investigation is ongoing.
Susan Shrestha
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