Apr 10, Kathmandu - In a crackdown on illegal storage and sale of government-subsidized fertilizers, police in Sindhupalchok have recovered 300 bags of fertilizer from two different locations in Balephi Rural Municipality.

According to Deputy Superintendent of Police Nawaraj Nepal of Nepal Armed Police Force, Sindhupalchok Headquarters, the seized fertilizer includes 74 bags of Urea and 190 bags of DAP, stored unlawfully in a warehouse at Sagun Store in Ward 7 of Balephi. The store, operated by Rajan Shrestha, was found hiding fertilizers branded ‘Shakti,’ supplied as part of government aid, which were being sold at inflated prices. The store has since been sealed.  

In addition, 36 bags of Urea fertilizer were found illegally stored in the shutter of Mangalmaya Shrestha’s house in Ward 5 of Balephi by Ajay Tamang.  

The joint team, led by Armed Police Sub-Inspector Siyaram Chaudhary from Lamosaghu Base and Inspector Dupendra Buda Thoki from Jalbire Area Police Office, acted on credible information that fertilizers were being hidden and sold illegally during a time when farmers were reportedly unable to access the fertilizer.  

Preliminary investigations suggest that the fertilizer, which was meant to be distributed only through cooperatives, was being clandestinely stored and sold at high prices by private vendors. Authorities are now investigating the source of the seized fertilizer, the roles of those involved, and the possible network behind the illegal activities.  

Police emphasize that strict action will be taken against those violating government regulations on fertilizer distribution.