Nine customs officials removed amid BYD vehicle tax evasion probe in Nepal

The government has relieved nine customs officials, including Rasuwa Customs Chief Tulsi Prasad Bhattarai, from their duties amid ongoing investigations into suspected tax evasion involving BYD electric vehicles. The officials were removed after it was discovered that vehicle inspections were cleared without the vehicles arriving at the customs yard, with the checks being conducted in China instead.

Naveen Dhungana, the Public Relations Advisor at the Ministry of Finance, confirmed that the nine officials, including the customs chief, have been called back to the Customs Department. Dhungana stated that a joint investigation team comprising the Ministry of Finance, Customs Department, Nepal Police, and Armed Police Force is conducting the investigation. Finance Minister Dr. Swarnim Wagle is committed to taking action against those found guilty.

Dhungana further mentioned that serious discussions have taken place between Finance Minister Dr. Wagle, the Director General of the Customs Department, and ministry officials. The minister is determined to ensure thorough investigations and appropriate action against those responsible.

The Armed Police Force has seized 779 BYD vehicles from various locations on suspicion of tax evasion, and the government has formed a committee to conduct a detailed investigation into the matter. Deepa Dahal, the Prime Minister’s Press and Research Advisor, informed that the investigation committee has already begun its work on-site at the locations where the vehicles were seized.

Dahal noted that due to the large number of vehicles, it may take some time to meticulously study and verify all legal documents related to revenue and customs.