Police Interrogate Former Civil Aviation Chief Over VIP Threat Case

Kathmandu. Police have taken a statement from Pradeep Adhikari, the former Director General of the Civil Aviation Authority, in connection with the case involving threats made against high-profile individuals, including CIAA Chief Prem Kumar Rai. Adhikari, who is currently detained awaiting trial in a corruption case, was summoned from the Dillibazar Jail Office to the police station for questioning by investigators from the Kathmandu District Police Range.

On Thursday and Friday, investigators questioned Adhikari regarding the alleged payment of a 'supari' (contract/fee) to Prakash Pathak to threaten VIPs. Pathak was apprehended and brought to Nepal with the assistance of the International Criminal Police Organization (Interpol). SSP Ramesh Thapa of the Kathmandu District Police Range confirmed that the questioning of Adhikari has begun, stating, "We have started questioning him as well; the investigation is not yet complete."

NPR 20 Million 'Supari' from Pradeep Adhikari to Threaten VIPs, Apartment in the Philippines

Pathak, who threatened VIPs via social media, has admitted in his statement to receiving money from Pradeep Adhikari. Officials involved in the investigation state that Adhikari allegedly paid Pathak to threaten CIAA Chief Rai after the CIAA began investigating irregularities in the construction of a helipad in Nalinchowk, Bhaktapur, and was about to file a case in court.

Pathak admitted in his statement to receiving NPR 20 million in cash from Adhikari. However, Adhikari has denied this fact. One official involved in the investigation told Ratopati that Adhikari denied giving the money during two days of questioning.

Pathak was brought to Nepal from the Philippines on Magh 28. He had threatened 10 high-profile individuals, including the CIAA Chief, via social media (Facebook). The police are investigating him under charges related to criminal gain, criminal conspiracy, and violations of the Electronic Transactions Act.