KATHMANDU: In connection with the smuggling of approximately 1 quintal of illegal gold, Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) has suspended an officer in charge of X-ray surveillance.

According to sources, Saroj Shrestha, who was responsible for viewing the X-ray on the day of the incident, has been suspended from his position at Tribhuwan Airport.

The Department of Customs (DoC) took swift action and suspended two other employees of the office in relation to the case. The suspended individuals are Customs Inspector Officer Santosh Chand and Kumar Dhakal.

A team of officials mobilized by the DOC seized illegal gold smuggled into Kathmandu via Cathay Pacific Airlines. Following the seizure, 10 individuals, including a Chinese national, were apprehended in connection with this smuggling operation.

To further investigate the possible involvement of other Customs Office employees, the department has formed a dedicated team, led by the Director of the Investigation Unit, Man Bahadur Paudel.

The authorities have assured of uncovering the full extent of the smuggling network and holding those responsible accountable for their actions.