KATHMANDU: At least 300 hooligans were detained today for allegedly disturbing peace and engaging in gang fights during the Holi.

SP Ganesh KC, In-charge, Metropolitan Police Range, Hanumandhoka informed that the arrests were made from Thamel, Sorhakhutte, Chabahil, Gaushala, Maitidevi, Putalisadak, Tinkune, Thapathali and Balkhu.

Of those arrested, most had engaged in scuffle with rival gangs under the influence of illegal drugs and alcohol. “We didn’t spare anyone found guilty of celebrating the festival in an indecent way, forcibly smearing colours on passerby’s face and throwing water-filled balloons at them without their consent and inciting violence,” he explained.

More than 12 persons have been injured in scuffles that broke out in separate places.

Most of those arrested were released later today after interrogation. Angry mob had picketed

police posts in Balkhu and Thapathali for few hours

to pressurise the officials to secure the release of their nearest ones.

The police personnel, who were fanned out in the streets, have also impounded 245 motorcycles for reckless driving. DIG Binod Singh, In-charge, Metropolitan Traffic Police Division, said the cops manning the street took action against 451 vehicles, especially motorcycles for violating traffic rules. “We’ve also confiscated 435 driving licenses and other documents and conducted alcohol check of the drivers of night buses plying to and from Kathmandu to ensure safe travel,” he informed.

According to DIG Singh, Kathmandu recorded 12 minor road mishaps, injuring equal number of people. Fatal accidents were not reported. Meanwhile, the police have arrested two more persons for physically assaulting the traffic cops in Baneshwor and Balaju.

Likewise, Maila Lama (29), hailing from Balaju Bypass was arrested for trying to attack police officers from Anti-Terrorism Cell of Nepal Police.