The Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) arrested a 49-year-old Congolese citizen, Apula Ekutshu Mbongo, on Friday in Thamel, Kathmandu, for smuggling cocaine. Mbongo was found to have 1 kg 101 grams of cocaine, with an estimated market value of approximately Rs. 3.85 crore (approximately USD 300,000).
According to NCB spokesperson Superintendent of Police Rameshwar Karki, Mbongo is suspected to be part of an international drug trafficking ring. She arrived in Kathmandu from Dubai on June 4th (Jestha 4th in the Nepali calendar) and raised suspicion among authorities. The NCB conducted surveillance and apprehended her at a hotel in Thamel. A search of her handbag revealed cocaine capsules concealed within a plastic bag.
Further investigation suggests Mbongo might have ingested the capsules in an attempt to smuggle the cocaine into Nepal. The NCB has initiated legal proceedings against her under the Narcotics Control Act 2033.
This arrest highlights the ongoing vigilance of Nepal’s narcotics enforcement agencies in combating international drug trafficking.
