Nepalis in Russian Army : DNA testing underway to confirm identity of deceased

KATHMANDU: In light of the tragic loss of Nepalis in Russia, efforts to confirm their identities have intensified through DNA testing of their relatives.

The Russian government has requested DNA samples from the families of the deceased, prompting the Nepali government to facilitate genetic testing.

The Department of Consular Service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has taken proactive steps by forwarding genetic samples of several individuals to the Nepal Police Central Office.

On Tuesday, samples from seven persons were dispatched, followed by an additional sample on Wednesday.

These samples pertain to the relatives of Khom Bahadur Bhujel, Bimal Kumar Gajmer, Prem Prakash Neupane, Bhim Bahadur BK, Kshitiz Basnet, Somesh Sunuwar, Bijaya Bahadur Thokar, and Jitendra Bahadur Ghising.

Recent reports indicate the possibility of 15 more Nepalis succumbing to the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

The government of Russia has reached out to the Embassy of Nepal in Moscow, urging them to facilitate the submission of DNA samples from the families to confirm the identities of the deceased through genetic testing.

Prakash Mani Poudel, the Director-General of the Department, expressed that upon receiving the DNA reports from Nepal Police, the details would promptly be relayed to Moscow.

The collaborative efforts between the Nepali and Russian governments underscore the importance of ensuring accurate identification and providing closure to the families affected by this tragedy.