KATHMANDU: The Department of Revenue Investigation (DRI) is currently facing challenges in recovering contact details due to Dawa Chhiring, the suspect involved in a one quintal gold smuggling case, having formatted his mobile phone.

Dawa Chhiring was arrested last week at the Vienna Hotel in Thamel, and during his statement, he implicated four other Chinese nationals in the smuggling operation.

The Department has escalated efforts to locate and apprehend the four Chinese nationals believed to be connected to the gold smuggling activity.

To prevent their escape, heightened vigilance has been implemented at the Tatopani and Kerung checkpoints, as well as at the Tribhuvan International Airport.

Out of the 18 individuals arrested so far, Dawa’s involvement in the management of the smuggled gold has been confirmed.

However, obtaining information about other individuals associated with Dawa has proven difficult as he had formatted both of his phones before being apprehended.

During the ongoing investigation, the Department is carefully examining various aspects of the case, with the technical aspect playing a crucial role in making progress.

According to Director General Navaraj Dhungana, the situation is advancing based on the facts uncovered.

As of now, the main accused in the gold smuggling case is yet to be arrested, and preliminary findings indicate that the smuggling operation is conducted by organized gangs.