KATHMANDU: Roshan Pokharel, who was arrested on charges of publishing abusive and defamatory content on YouTube targeting political leaders including Prime Minister Balen Shah, has been released.

According to DSP Anish Karki of the District Police Office, Panchthar, Pokharel has been handed over to his family with the condition that he will appear whenever required.

A resident of Phalgunanda Rural Municipality–7 in Panchthar, Pokharel was arrested on Chaitra 26 following an investigation based on findings from the Nepal Police Cyber Bureau. He was taken into custody by the District Police Office, Panchthar, and later remanded for 10 days by the District Court, Panchthar.

Following his arrest, criticism has surfaced on social media targeting Prime Minister Balen Shah, with users sharing his old Facebook posts and videos.