Kathmandu-The government has intensified its investigation into 779 electric vehicles seized on suspicion of revenue evasion. Of the total, 774 vehicles are manufactured by Chinese electric vehicle company BYD and entered Nepal through the Korala border crossing in Mustang.

The Prime Minister’s Secretariat said a joint committee formed under the direction of the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers has reached the site and begun examining the necessary documents and procedures.

A joint investigation committee comprising representatives from the Ministry of Finance, the Department of Customs, Nepal Police, and the Armed Police Force Nepal was formed on Thursday. The committee is tasked with investigating whether the import, customs clearance, and revenue payment procedures related to the seized vehicles complied with existing laws.

According to Deepa Dahal, Press and Research Expert at the Prime Minister’s Secretariat, the government has taken the issue of revenue protection and good governance seriously and has initiated a thorough investigation process.

She stated that the committee has already begun reviewing details of the seized vehicles, customs records, and other relevant documents.

Dahal noted that due to the large number of vehicles involved, it may take time to thoroughly study, verify, and fact-check all related legal documents. She urged stakeholders not to speculate and to remain patient until the investigation is completed.

The Prime Minister’s Secretariat said necessary legal and administrative actions will be taken based on the findings of the investigation. The government, it added, remains committed to protecting state revenue, ensuring legal compliance, and promoting good governance.

The committee is currently examining the import process, customs valuation, inspection procedures, and revenue payments linked to the 779 seized electric vehicles. Government officials said the actual facts of the case will only be made public after the investigation report is completed.