Maoists free six

Ilam: The Maoists on Saturday released six persons, who had been in their custody for the past few months, in the presence of human rights activists and journalists. The Ilam Maoist Peoples’ Government released five persons who were captured on charge of murder and another who was accused of being involved in an illicit relationship. Those freed included Ganesh Rai, Krishna Rai, Yogendra Rai and Jai Kumar Rai, Chatra Kumari Gurung and Jhalak Rai.

NARC acting chief

KATHMANDU: Government has appointed principal scientist Dr Nanda Prasad Shrestha acting executive director of the Nepal Agricultural Research Council (NARC) until further notice. Shrestha was appointed as per the minister-level decision of August 17, a press release issues by NARC on Saturday stated. — HNS

2 killed in mishap

RUPANDEHI: Two passengers died when a bolder from Chure hill near Siddhababadham landed on a passenger bus on Saturday. The two, who were travelling on the roof of the bus (Lu 1 Kha 346) heading to Palpa from Butwal died on the spot when a rolling stone hit them, said Area Police Office, Butwal. One of the deceased has been identified as Bharat Rana of Palpa. Ashish Nepal and Binu Rana, who were injured in the mishap, have been undergoing treatment in Lumbini Zonal hospital, said police. — HNS