KATHMANDU: The custody of businesspersons Deepak Bhatta and Shulabh Agrawal has been extended in connection with an ongoing money laundering investigation.
According to the administration section of the Special Court, the custody extension was ordered on Monday, with both accused receiving additional remand.
Bhatta’s custody has been extended for the eighth time, while Agrawal’s has been extended for the ninth time, each for three days. The order was issued by a bench comprising Judges Narayan Prasad Paudel and Umesh Koirala.
The two businessmen have been in police custody for an extended period as part of an investigation conducted under the Anti-Money Laundering framework.
Bhatta was arrested from Lalitpur on Chaitra 18, while Agrawal was taken into custody on Chaitra 21, according to investigation authorities.
Law enforcement agencies said both individuals are under investigation for alleged financial irregularities related to money laundering offenses. Bhatta is currently held at the Boudha Police Circle, while Agrawal is in custody at the Lalitpur District Police Office.
The investigation has also reportedly expanded to financial transactions involving Himalayan Bank and Himalayan Reinsurance.
Authorities said Agrawal has experienced health complications during prolonged detention and has been repeatedly hospitalized for treatment before being returned to custody.
Officials added that the investigation is nearing its final phase.
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