Nepal’s Ministry of Home Affairs has confirmed the arrest of 375 individuals linked to arson, vandalism, looting, and other violent acts that erupted during the protests on September 8 and 9, which ultimately led to a change in the Nepali government. Of those detained, 141 have already been formally charged with offenses including criminal mischief, theft, dereliction of duty, indecent behavior, and illegal possession of weapons.
The crackdown follows two days of intense unrest that left 76 people dead, including protesters, and caused widespread damage to government institutions and private property. The movement began as a youth-led campaign for systemic reform, targeting corruption, unemployment, political nepotism, and the generational gap in leadership. However, peaceful demonstrations quickly escalated into chaos as clashes with security forces intensified.
Rioters attacked symbols of state authority, setting fire to buildings housing the executive, legislature, and judiciary, while also looting businesses and vehicles. The violence prompted curfews and a heavy police response, which drew criticism for excessive force and praise for restoring order.
Kathmandu Valley emerged as the epicenter of both the protests and the arrests, with 218 detentions reported in the region. Provincial figures show 30 arrests in Koshi, 21 in Madhesh, 33 in Bagmati (outside the valley), 32 in Gandaki, 29 in Lumbini, 4 in Karnali, and 8 in Sudurpashchim. According to police records, 178 people were taken into custody in Kathmandu District alone by Tuesday.
A significant revelation came from Pawan Kumar Bhattarai, spokesperson for the Kathmandu District Police Complex. Speaking to the BBC, he stated that most of those arrested in the valley have prior criminal records. A review of the first 100 detainees showed that 60 percent had previous conflicts with law enforcement, and some had already served prison sentences.
This suggests that while the initial protests were rooted in legitimate grievances, criminal elements exploited the unrest for personal gain.
The arrested individuals span a wide age range, from 13-year-old minors to a 61-year-old adult. The largest group—88 people—falls between 15 and 24 years old. Only 13 minors have been detained nationwide, and Nepali law requires special procedures for their handling, often prioritizing rehabilitation over punishment. Four women are among those arrested in Kathmandu.
Two non-Nepali nationals—both Indian—have been sent to trial for arson and vandalism; no other foreigners have been arrested in connection with the violence. However, social media videos have circulated claiming that refugees living in Nepal participated in the destruction. Police spokesperson Bhattarai confirmed that these allegations are under investigation, with authorities analyzing digital evidence and witness statements.
The government has vowed full accountability, filing cases under Nepal’s civil and criminal codes.
Susan Shrestha
View More PostsSusan Shrestha is a Europe-based journalist. He covers a wide range of topics, from local matters to global affairs. Shrestha previously worked as a reporter for Khasokhas in Nepal.
