Nepal has begun the process to seek an Interpol notice against Sher Bahadur Deuba and Arzu Rana as part of a widening money laundering investigation, significantly escalating the case’s international dimension. The move matters as it could pave the way for global tracking and possible arrest coordination while the couple remains outside the country.
Authorities confirmed that the Department of Money Laundering Investigation is preparing to request an Interpol notice through Nepal Police after establishing that the former prime minister and his wife are currently abroad.
Interpol Notice Process Moves Forward
Officials said the process was triggered after investigators verified foreign travel records of Deuba and Rana through the Department of Immigration. The couple had reportedly traveled to India and Singapore before moving to Hong Kong for medical treatment.
Under Nepal’s legal framework, once suspects are confirmed to be outside the country, authorities can formally request the National Central Bureau (NCB) to initiate Interpol procedures.
Sources indicate that preparations are underway to send a formal request to Interpol’s General Secretariat in Lyon, France, which coordinates global police alerts.
Arrest Warrant Dispute Raises Questions
The development comes amid conflicting claims over whether an arrest warrant has already been issued. Senior officials from the investigation department have publicly denied that a warrant exists.
However, court sources maintain that the Kathmandu District Court granted arrest permission earlier this week, suggesting legal grounds for further escalation. This discrepancy has added uncertainty to the case, even as enforcement agencies continue procedural steps.
Red Notice Likely Next Step
Security officials say the ultimate goal is to secure a Red Notice — Interpol’s most serious alert used to locate and provisionally arrest individuals pending extradition.
Before a Red Notice is issued, authorities typically circulate a “diffusion” alert to identify the suspect’s location. A Red Notice is generally pursued in cases involving serious offences carrying significant prison terms.
Officials have not confirmed which type of notice will be requested in this case, but internal discussions are ongoing.
Political and Legal Impact Intensifies
The case has drawn widespread attention in Nepal’s political and legal circles, given Deuba’s status as a former prime minister and senior political leader. Investigators are examining allegations of illegal asset accumulation under Nepal’s money laundering laws, though detailed evidence has not been made public.
The move to involve Interpol signals a shift toward international enforcement, potentially raising diplomatic and legal implications if a notice is issued.
Broader Investigation Expands
Authorities have also confirmed that the investigation is not limited to Deuba and Rana, with other senior political figures reportedly under scrutiny in the same case. The government’s push to expand the probe reflects increasing pressure to demonstrate accountability in high-profile financial investigations.
For now, the focus remains on completing the Interpol request process — a step that could significantly alter the trajectory of the case in the coming days.
