Armed Police Force personnel arrested a young man in Damak, Jhapa, on Wednesday evening for allegedly transporting cash to influence voters during the election's silent period. The team detained the suspect at Shripali Chowk in Damak-7, a location situated within the constituency of K.P. Sharma Oli.
A unit from the Armed Police Force Security Base in Beldangi, led by Assistant Sub-Inspector Dharanidhar Pokhrel, intercepted a scooter with the license plate Province 1-02-050 Pa 5398 during a routine security check as it traveled from south to north. According to the police report, the driver was taken into custody after authorities discovered 127,000 NPR in cash hidden inside the scooter's storage compartment.
The seized currency, the vehicle, and the suspect were subsequently handed over to Police Head Constable Gopal Karki for further legal proceedings. Jhapa Police stated that they have intensified surveillance and are taking strict action against individuals involved in distributing money or engaging in activities that violate the election code of conduct.
Information regarding the incident suggests that the funds were intended for distribution to voters in local squatter settlements, allegedly with a fixed amount allocated per vote to influence the outcome. Police confirmed that a detailed investigation into the matter is currently underway.
Such activities occurring on the eve of the election signal a necessity for security agencies to remain highly vigilant to ensure the integrity and fairness of the electoral process.