KATHMANDU: Bhatbhateni Superstore, Nepal’s largest retail chain, said it has suffered damages worth nearly Rs. 10.85 billion after coordinated arson and vandalism incidents swept across the country on September 9.

According to the company, 12 of its 20 outlets — including the flagship store in Baluwatar — were completely destroyed by fire, while nine others sustained partial damage from looting and vandalism. Escalators, lifts, refrigeration units, and other costly equipment were also reduced to ashes in the attacks.

Chairman and Managing Director Min Bahadur Gurung presented the damage assessment to Prime Minister Sushila Karki during a recent meeting, saying the company would not lay off its more than 10,000 employees and would continue to provide regular Dashain festival bonuses.

Gurung alleged that Bhatbhateni was deliberately targeted, even as he pledged to donate half of his personal assets to the state if requested.

In its detailed breakdown, the company reported losses of Rs. 4.40 billion from 19 stores, destruction of goods worth Rs. 5.96 billion in fires, and an additional Rs. 495 million in damages from looting and vandalism.

The destruction represents one of the most severe blows to Nepal’s private sector in recent years, raising questions about security, political stability, and the protection of major employers.