KATHMANDU: The Nepal Army has arrested 27 people involved in looting under its special security strategy launched from Tuesday night.

Taking advantage of the Gen Z protests, some groups engaged in looting and vandalism, leading to army intervention.

According to the army, those arrested were found engaged in looting, arson, and other anarchic activities. The arrests were made in Kathmandu and Bhaktapur.

Among them, five were detained in New Baneshwor for their involvement in a bank robbery, while 21 others were caught looting in Bhaktapur and Kathmandu’s Bouddha area.

The Army said it began operations after opportunistic groups started looting amid the intensifying Gen Z protests over the past two days.

The Nepali Army has urged the public to actively cooperate in controlling looting, arson, and destructive activities.

It has also requested citizens to send information via SMS, WhatsApp, or Viber to the Army’s mobile number 9863029029 if such incidents occur in their area.

Communities have been called upon to remain united, monitor their neighborhoods, and share accurate information before security forces arrive.

The Army further warned against misinformation and exaggerated claims being spread on social media, urging the public to rely only on verified information.

Reaffirming its 24/7 commitment to maintaining peace and security alongside other security agencies, the Army stressed that citizen awareness, cooperation, community unity, and accurate information sharing are crucial in strengthening national security during such challenging times.