Nine arrested in failed bid to extort businessman

KATHMANDU: At least nine extortionists were arrested today during a police swoop on a private office at Naya Bazaar. They were threatening a businessman for life when they were arrested red-handed.

A special squad deployed by the Metropolitan Police Sector, Sorhakhutte, had arrested them, acting on a tip-off served by intelligence. Those arrested have been identified as Deepak Gurung (18), Dev Gurung (20), Ram Kumar Karki (18), Suraj Magar (18), Kabiraj Gurung (20) and Rajesh Pariyar (20), all hailing from Gorkha, Prakash Subedi (18) of Syangja, Sudip Lama (19) of Kavre and Sunil Gurung (26) of Chitawan.

According to the police, they were demanding a hefty amount from Bharat Sapkota, an owner of Adventure Travels Club for his unharmed life when they were netted. The accused have pleaded guilty.

They have been handed over to Metropolitan Police Range, Hanumandhoka, for further investigation. An official said that the accused would be produced before the Kathmandu District Court tomorrow where they will be formally charged with extortion and hostage-taking bid. During an interrogation, they acknowledged that they were involved in criminal activities but said they had no employment.

They will be put on trial as per Donation and Hostage Taking Act. Earlier, the police had arrested five for raiding a Gold Refinery.