Pokhara Police Arrest 16 Women for Harassing Tourists in Lakeside

Pokhara. Police have apprehended 16 women involved in immoral activities, robbery, and harassment of tourists in the Lakeside area, considered the primary tourist hub of Pokhara. A joint team from the Kaski District Police Office and the Baidam Ward Police Office conducted a special operation between 12:30 AM and 2:00 AM on Sunday to make the arrests.

The police raid followed an increase in complaints regarding individuals harassing domestic and international tourists and extorting money through various lures on the streets of Lakeside. According to Police Inspector Ganesh Pandey, the acting information officer for Kaski Police, the suspects would approach tourists with various enticements and rob them when the opportunity arose. Police noted that some of those arrested are repeat offenders previously involved in similar activities.

According to DSP Namraj Bhattarai, in-charge of the Baidam Ward Police Office, the women's modus operandi was highly organized. Investigations revealed that some would solicit money from tourists for immoral relations, only to claim that their 'husband had arrived' upon reaching a hotel, using the threat to extort money and flee.

Among those arrested, minors under the age of 18 have been sent to rehabilitation centers, while preparations are underway to file charges of indecent behavior against the others. Police stated that some will be released into the custody of their guardians.

To curb such irregularities that tarnish the image of Pokhara, the tourist capital, the police have launched a 'Clean Lakeside' campaign. Since taking command, DSP Bhattarai has also taken strict measures against hooliganism in Lakeside and the bullying tactics of bouncers in dance bars.

'We will not spare anyone who disrupts peace and security or is openly involved in prostitution, as we aim to make Lakeside free from distortions and anomalies,' DSP Bhattarai stated clearly. The police have also appealed to local residents for their cooperation in making Lakeside safe and dignified.