Kathmandu — Nepal Police have arrested two men in connection with a foreign employment fraud involving Rs 91.9 million , underscoring persistent risks in overseas job recruitment. The Bulgaria job scam highlights how vulnerable job seekers continue to be targeted with false promises of lucrative work abroad.
According to officials, the suspects allegedly collected large sums from victims by promising well-paid employment opportunities in Bulgaria, a tactic commonly used in foreign job scams.
Suspects Accused of Large-Scale Recruitment Fraud
A team deployed from the Kathmandu Valley Crime Investigation Office arrested 32-year-old Dipendra Kunwar from Sharada Municipality–4, Salyan, and 24-year-old Ghane Budha from Banagad Kupinde Municipality–8.
Police spokesperson Rameshwar Karki said the duo is accused of defrauding multiple individuals by assuring overseas placements that never materialised. Authorities confirmed that the suspects had taken a total of Rs 91.9 million million from victims under the pretext of arranging jobs in Bulgaria.
Victims Lured With High Salary Promises
Investigators say the accused used the promise of attractive salaries and foreign placement to convince victims, many of whom were seeking better economic opportunities abroad. Such scams often exploit limited awareness and urgent financial needs, making job seekers easy targets for fraud networks.
Officials warn that similar schemes are on the rise, particularly involving lesser-known labour destinations where verification is difficult.
Case Handed to Foreign Employment Department
Following their arrest, both suspects have been handed over to the Department of Foreign Employment for further investigation and legal action. Authorities say the case will proceed under Nepal’s foreign employment laws, which impose strict penalties for fraud and unauthorized recruitment.
Growing Concern Over Foreign Job Scams
Nepal has seen a steady increase in foreign employment fraud cases in recent years, despite regulatory efforts and public awareness campaigns. Experts say stronger monitoring, faster complaint handling, and stricter enforcement are needed to curb such crimes and protect migrant workers.
Police have urged the public to verify recruitment agencies and avoid making payments without official documentation to prevent falling victim to similar scams.
