KATHMANDU: Authorities have clarified the facts behind a viral video showing a French national found in a distressed condition in the Pashupatinath Temple area.
According to Nepal Police, an investigation was conducted after the video circulated widely on social media, revealing the actual circumstances of the individual.
Police said the French citizen has been living in Nepal for the past six years with his Nepali wife. Due to financial difficulties, the couple was unable to pay their hotel bills and had left behind personal belongings, including a passport, mobile phone and laptop, at the hotel.
“He was found safely and handed over to the Department of Immigration for necessary procedures,” Nepal Police said in a statement.
During questioning, it was confirmed that the belongings were not stolen or looted, but were left at the hotel because of financial problems.
Police also noted that misleading claims had circulated on social media suggesting the French national had been robbed.
Authorities have urged the public not to share photos or videos without verifying the facts, warning that spreading rumors for a few likes or views should be discouraged.
At the same time, police thanked members of the public who helped bring the situation to attention through the video.
Comment