Kathmandu Police Gradually Resume Duties After Deadly Anti-Government Protests
Vandalised stations reopen as Nepal Police return, aided by locals, post violent unrest.
Nepal's police forces are slowly resuming operations in the Kathmandu Valley following widespread vandalism and arson during violent anti-government protests earlier this week. Officials from the Kathmandu Valley Police Office reported that damaged stations, beats, and units are reopening, with Nepal Police and Armed Police Force personnel returning to streets and posts. The unrest, led by students, targeted corruption and a social media ban, leading to dozens of police facilities being attacked, though the exact count remains unconfirmed. Spokesperson SSP Shekhar Khanal noted that officers are working with available resources, supported by local communities aiding in repairs and cleanups.
The protests escalated dramatically, forcing many police personnel to seek refuge in army barracks as agitators overwhelmed them. The Nepali Army subsequently took charge of national security to restore order. Community leaders have called for public assistance in rebuilding efforts, highlighting a collaborative recovery process. This resumption comes amid a fragile calm, as authorities prioritize reestablishing law and order in the capital region, which has a history of political volatility stemming from frequent government changes and public discontent.
The violence peaked on Monday and Tuesday, prompting Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli's resignation on Tuesday after protesters stormed his office. The demonstrations were fueled by outrage over at least 19 deaths from police actions during the clashes, as well as demands to end the social media ban, which was lifted Monday night. Oli, a veteran communist leader serving his third term, faced mounting pressure amid allegations of corruption and governance failures in Nepal, a landlocked nation grappling with economic challenges and political instability since its transition to a federal republic in 2008.
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Even after Oli's exit, unrest persisted, with protesters setting fire to key government buildings, including Parliament, the President's Office, the Prime Minister's residence, and political party offices. The Ministry of Health updated the death toll to 34 on Friday, underscoring the severity of the clashes. As recovery efforts continue, the interim government faces the task of addressing protesters' grievances while ensuring stability in the Himalayan nation.
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