Nepali Army mobilises security agencies after 10 pm amid ongoing unrest

KATHMANDU: Nepali Army (NA) has cautioned that some groups are exploiting the current adverse situation by damaging public and private property, looting and committing arson, and must stop immediately.  

If such activities continue, the NA and other security bodies, whose primary responsibility is to protect Nepal and its people, will take firm action to control the situation from 10:00 pm onwards, it said in a press release.  

The NA also appealed for everyone’s cooperation.  

Further information will be issued after an evaluation of the situation, the NA Public Relations Directorate said.  

Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Ashok Raj Sigdel cautioned the agitating groups to suspend their protest programmes and come forward for dialogue to seek a peaceful solution to the recent unrest.  

In a video message late this evening, he said protesters must prevent further damage to life and property and co-operate in the shared responsibility of maintaining peace, security and national unity.  

General Sigdel said it was everyone’s duty to protect the supreme interests of the nation by normalising the current difficult situation and ensuring the security of national and historical heritage, citizens’ property, diplomatic missions of friendly countries and the public at large.  

He said the Nepali Army have remained steadfastly committed to the country’s independence, sovereignty, territorial integrity, national unity and the security of Nepali people, even in adverse circumstances.