KATHMANDU: The body found near the banks of the River Thames close to Waterloo in London has been confirmed to be that of a Nepali student.

According to Bipin Duwadi, Spokesperson and Deputy Chief of Mission at the Nepali Embassy, the London Metropolitan Police confirmed the identity of the body as that of 20-year-old Sushan Oli of Musikot Municipality–12, Rukum West, after conducting a fingerprint test.

The body was found last Tuesday, and there were suspicions that it might belong to a Nepali student. When the police conducted a fingerprint analysis, it was confirmed that the body was indeed that of a Nepali student.

The embassy had requested the Department of Passports in Nepal to send Oli’s fingerprint records, and the London police confirmed the match, Duwadi said.

Police suspect that Oli may have committed suicide based on their preliminary investigation, and preparations are being made for the management of the body in coordination with the deceased’s family.

Informing that the family has already been updated about the progress of the investigation and the circumstances, Duwadi said, “Based on the preliminary investigation, police have stated that the death does not appear suspicious. Further details will emerge after additional investigation.”

He also informed that coordination is ongoing with the family regarding whether the body will be brought back to Nepal or the final rites will be performed in the UK.

Oli had been reported missing since April 21, and fellow students at his college had informed the London police and the Nepali Embassy about his disappearance.