KATHMANDU: Tharka Man Lama of Kavre has been arrested in connection with the 61 kg gold smuggling case.

The Valley Crime Investigation Office arrested the 45-year-old Lama in Lazimpat.

Earlier, a commission formed to probe the case had recommended investigations against several suspects.

Lama’s arrest follows this recommendation, according to the police.

The case was initially investigated by the Crime Investigation Bureau (CIB).

Following the commission’s report, further investigation into officials involved in the initial probe was recommended.

Currently, the second phase of the investigation is underway, as per the commission’s report.