Nepal News Live: Army Takes Charge as Protests Escalate, Kathmandu Airport Shutdown Extended
The Nepali Army has taken full charge of the country’s security after days of violent youth-led protests that forced the resignation of Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli.
In a late-night operation on Tuesday, the Army officially assumed control of national security from the police, citing escalating violence that has already claimed at least 19 lives in police firing.
On Wednesday, the Army confirmed the arrest of 26 individuals in Kathmandu and Bhaktapur on charges of looting and rioting. Among them, five were detained for allegedly looting a bank in New Baneshwor, while 21 others were picked up in Bouddha for violent activities.
The Army issued a public statement stressing its commitment to protect citizens and restore stability:
“The Nepal Army is always committed to safeguarding lives and property. We urge all citizens, especially youth, to remain calm and uphold national unity so the situation does not worsen.”
Officials also warned against misinformation, urging citizens to avoid circulating unverified content on social media. Reporting channels via SMS, WhatsApp, and Viber have been opened, with the helpline number 9863029029 available for citizens to report suspicious activity.
Meanwhile, Kathmandu Airport has extended its shutdown, disrupting international and domestic flights. The whereabouts of resigned Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli remain unconfirmed, with speculation growing amid the political and security vacuum.
In India, the Uttar Pradesh government has set up helplines to assist stranded citizens, while Prime Minister Narendra Modi convened a high-level CCS meeting with senior ministers to review the crisis.
With the Army in control, Nepal now faces a delicate phase of transition as protests, security concerns, and political uncertainty collide in the heart of the Himalayan nation.
