A financial dispute linked to the sale and purchase of a restaurant in Kathmandu has drawn one of Nepal’s most recognizable culinary figures into an ongoing police investigation.
Celebrity chef Santosh Shah, who was taken into custody on Saturday following complaints related to cheque dishonour and alleged fraud, has been released on an attendance bond after preliminary questioning. Police say the investigation remains active and no final conclusion has been reached.
The Kathmandu District Police Range confirmed that Shah was released on Sunday into the custody of his family on the condition that he appears before investigators whenever required.
Restaurant Transaction at the Centre of the Dispute
The case stems from financial dealings connected to a restaurant ownership transfer in Kathmandu. The dispute escalated after a cheque issued during the transaction was allegedly returned unpaid when presented for encashment.
Alongside the cheque bounce complaint, a fraud allegation was also registered, prompting police to open a formal investigation into the broader financial arrangement between the parties involved.
For now, investigators are examining documents, payment records and other materials related to the transaction.
Investigation Still Underway
Police officials say statements are being collected from individuals connected to the case and that financial records are being reviewed before any determination is made.
- Shah was detained on Saturday following complaints of cheque dishonour and alleged fraud.
- He was released on Sunday on an attendance bond.
- Police have required him to appear whenever called during the investigation.
- Document verification and witness statements are still being collected.
The development has attracted public attention because of Shah’s high profile in Nepal’s culinary sector. However, investigators maintain that the matter is being treated as a financial dispute under legal review and that further comments would be inappropriate until the inquiry reaches a conclusion.
Police have not indicated when the investigation is expected to be completed.
