Arrest warrant issued against former Nepal PM Deuba, his wife: Reports

A Nepal court has issued arrest warrants against former Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba and his wife in a money laundering case, as authorities move toward seeking an Interpol Red Notice.

Post Published By: Ayushi Bisht

Updated : 8 April 2026, 8:55 PM IST

Arrest warrant issued against former Nepal PM Deuba (Image: Internet)

Kathmandu: The Kathmandu District Court has reportedly issued arrest warrants against former Nepal Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba and his wife Arzu Rana Deuba in connection with an ongoing money laundering investigation.

The warrants were issued following approval from a judicial bench led by Judge Mahendra Khadka, based on a request from the Department of Money Laundering Investigation.

Probe Expands to Top Leaders

The investigation is part of a wider probe into alleged financial irregularities involving several senior political figures. Among those under scrutiny are former prime ministers K P Sharma Oli and Pushpa Kamal Dahal.

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Authorities are examining possible money laundering activities linked to high-profile individuals, marking a significant development in Nepal’s political landscape.

Trigger: Burnt Cash Controversy

The case gained attention following widespread circulation of videos and images showing burnt currency at properties linked to political figures during protests last year.

The unrest, which took place during the so-called Gen-Z movement, saw residences of several leaders attacked. Forensic examinations later confirmed that the burnt currency fragments were genuine, prompting deeper investigation amid initial doubts over their authenticity.

Deuba Couple Reportedly Abroad

Reports indicate that Deuba and his wife are currently outside Nepal. The couple travelled to Singapore in February for medical treatment and have not returned since. They are also believed to have visited Hong Kong.

Their absence has complicated the investigation, leading authorities to explore international legal options.

Interpol Notice Likely

Sources suggest that the arrest warrants may be a step toward seeking an Interpol Red Notice. If issued, it would allow law enforcement agencies worldwide to locate and detain the couple, facilitating their return to Nepal.

Nepal: Ex-PM KP Oli arrested after power shift; Linked to Gen-Z protests

Political Context and Recent Developments

Deuba, a five-time prime minister and a key figure in Nepalese politics for decades, did not contest the latest parliamentary elections.

Following the recent polls, the Rastriya Swatantra Party emerged as the dominant force in the House of Representatives. The new political environment has intensified scrutiny of past leadership, with fresh investigations underway.

The developments mark a critical moment in Nepal’s political and legal landscape, with potential implications for several senior leaders.