CIB investigates Miteri Cooperative fraud involving Dhanraj Gurung

Kathmandu, September 14 — The Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) of the Nepal Police has initiated an investigation into the alleged fraud involving the Miteri Savings and Credit Cooperative, which is connected to the Vice President of the Nepali Congress and former Minister of Law, Dhanraj Gurung, and his former wife.

CIB spokesperson Hobindra Bogati informed that a complaint has been filed against the employees and management of the cooperative, and preliminary investigations have started. He stated, "We will investigate how the funds were misused and determine who is involved. Currently, we are focusing on the employees and the management committee of the cooperative."

The cooperative's president, Kumbhraj Gurung, had lodged a complaint with the Department of Co-operatives last month, alleging that Jyoti Gurung, who was the cooperative's general manager, embezzled 12.5 million rupees. Jyoti Gurung, who is the ex-wife of Dhanraj Gurung, is the main accused in the fraud case. Despite claims by Dhanraj that they separated in 2076 (2019), Kumbhraj has reported that Dhanraj has continued to pay off the debts incurred under his wife's name.

CIB spokesperson Bogati mentioned that it will be determined during the investigation whether Dhanraj Gurung is involved. He also noted that no complaint has been filed against Dhanraj Gurung so far.

Meanwhile, after the allegations of fraud, a parliamentary probe committee has conducted a field inspection of the Miteri Cooperative. The committee was informed by the cooperative's president, Kumbhraj, that Dhanraj Gurung had fabricated a divorce to conceal the fraud, and that even a month ago, he had been paying off the loan installments taken by his wife. Kumbhraj also complained to the committee that his earlier complaint against Dhanraj Gurung had not been registered by the CIB.