KATHMANDU: An absconding consultancy operator has been detained from Maharajgunj of the Capital after he allegedly swindled as many as 18 persons of Rs 6.51 million.

The 36-year-old Ram Prasad Khanal of Khandaha-9, Arghakhanchi, currently residing in Budhanilakantha, Kathmandu was arrested on Tuesday.

He is accused of going out of contact after collecting money from them with a false assurance of providing permanent residency status and jobs in Canada, the Metropolitan Police Crime Division said.

He had collected Rs 1.2 million to Rs 1.4 million from each of the victims, police added.

Police had begun a search after some victims filed a complaint against him.

The MPCD handed him over to the Metropolitan Police Range, Kathmandu, for further investigation and action, according to police.