14 arrested in Chitwan for illegal networking business

July 2, Kathmandu: Police in Chitwan have arrested 14 individuals, including the operator Dhan Bahadur Khatri, for running an illegal networking business and defrauding people.

The arrests were made in Bharatpur-9, Beni Chowk, following complaints from three victims who alleged they were cheated out of amounts ranging from Rs 45,000 to Rs 265,000. The District Administration Office, Chitwan, has also directed police to shut down 15 illegally operating networking businesses. The accused were operating under the name Global Orience Nepal, which was changed to Visionary Youth Entrepreneurs Training Institute on the day of the police raid.

On Tuesday, police raided the office, seizing documents and arresting seven individuals. Victims reported being lured from districts like Rautahat with promises of high earnings, weekly salaries, accommodation, and vehicles. However, they were coerced into buying and selling health supplements costing over Rs 30,000, with promises of earning “star” or “diamond” ranks based on sales.

Many victims, realising they were deceived, returned home after losing money. Some were forced to cover their living expenses despite promises of company support. According to Chitwan District Police Office spokesperson Ravindra Khanal, the accused misled victims with false job promises and pressured them into selling products and recruiting others into the networking scheme. Police are continuing their investigation into the matter.