BIRATNAGAR: Morang Police have arrested a man suspected of maintaining close ties with Abhishek Giri, as investigators expand their probe into an alleged criminal network linked to the controversial figure.
The suspect, Mukesh Karki, 46, of Biratnagar Metropolitan City-7, was arrested from his residence on Saturday morning by a joint team from the Biratnagar Ward Police Office and the Haatkhola Police Office.
Police said the arrest followed an ongoing investigation into Giri, during which authorities intensified surveillance of individuals believed to be part of his network of associates and collaborators. Karki subsequently came under police scrutiny and was taken into custody for further questioning.
According to Morang Police spokesperson DSP Makendra Kumar Mishra, investigators found that Karki had maintained long-standing contact with Giri, prompting his detention for further investigation.
Police said they are examining Karki’s relationship with Giri, financial transactions, past activities and any possible involvement in criminal offences. Preliminary findings suggest Karki may have assisted Giri in financial management, bookkeeping and other operational activities, although investigators have yet to establish criminal liability.
Authorities said the investigation has also expanded to other individuals allegedly connected to Giri, either directly or indirectly. Police suspect members of the network may have been involved in extortion, usury (meter-interest lending), exerting pressure in public procurement and contract bidding, issuing threats, and other illicit financial activities by leveraging Giri’s influence.
Morang Police Chief SP Kabit Katwal said investigations into individuals linked to Giri, their financial dealings and related activities are continuing. He said legal action will be taken against anyone found to have engaged in criminal conduct based on evidence gathered during the investigation.
Police had previously arrested Giri from his residence in Biratnagar-8 on June 27, accusing him of collecting prisoners’ food allowance funds from Morang Prison and financially exploiting inmates.
