Kathmandu, June 5
The Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority (CIAA) has received the digital forensic report of five mobile phones, including those belonging to Under-Secretary Tirtha Raj Bhattarai, who heads the Immigration Office at Tribhuvan International Airport.
The CIAA had seized 16 phones from various suspects during its investigation into the alleged extortion of youth traveling abroad on visit visas. Among the three phones recovered from Bhattarai, one was his personal device, another was a government-issued phone, and the third was also in his use.
“A forensic report of five phones, including Bhattarai’s, arrived on Tuesday,” a CIAA source said, “We are conducting further analysis based on the findings.”
Officials suspect the contents of Bhattarai’s phone may reveal critical evidence in the case. CIAA Spokesperson Rajendra Kumar Paudel confirmed that some digital device reports have arrived, while others are still pending.
The CIAA raided the airport office on May 21, following extended surveillance triggered by reports of large-scale extortion. During the raid, Bhattarai was briefly detained and had his electronic devices seized.
He was later released after questioning, and formal interrogation began Tuesday. Notably, during the ongoing investigation, Bhattarai was abruptly transferred to the Ministry of Home Affairs.
Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak later told reporters that the transfer was necessary for further inquiry.
According to CIAA sources, initial findings suggest over Rs 10 million (approx. USD 75,000) is being extorted daily from visit visa applicants at the airport.
“If significant evidence is found, it will help reveal the full scope of corruption at the airport,” one officer said.
Opposition parties have demanded Minister Lekhak’s resignation, citing Bhattarai’s sudden transfer and the presence of controversial figures in the ministry. However, the ruling Nepali Congress and CPN-UML have rejected calls for his resignation.
