KATHMANDU, JULY 30

Police in Surkhet have arrested self-styled spiritual healer Sameer Thapa, popularly known as "Pathibhara Mata", on allegations of abusing a woman under the pretext of performing faith healing rituals.

Thapa was arrested from his residence in Birendranagar-3 by a team led by Police Inspector Deepak Magarathi, according to Surkhet Police Chief Superintendent of Police Thakur Prasad Pokharel.

Police said Thapa had allegedly mistreated a woman while claiming to provide spiritual healing and divination services. His arrest followed reports from local residents after photos and videos related to the alleged incident surfaced on social media.

Further investigation is underway.