Kathmandu: The Nepali Army (NA) troops deployed to protect important public infrastructures and 62 prisons in the wake of the recent Gen-Z movement have been withdrawn from 41 locations as the situation gradually regains normalcy. NA personnel were initially mobilized for the security of five prisons within the Kathmandu Valley and 57 others outside the Valley following adverse situations arising from the Gen-Z movement on September 8 and 9.
According to National News Agency Nepal, the NA stated that troops remain stationed at 21 locations due to ongoing security challenges. Anup Jung Thapa, Director General of NA’s Military Operations Department, reported that the NA successfully brought the situation under control within six to eight hours of deployment. This rapid response occurred despite instances of arson, vandalism, and riots triggered by the protestors during the Gen-Z movement.
Thapa highlighted that the NA executed a rescue operation with zero human casualties in extremely challenging circumstances, ensuring the smooth flow of essential services and goods. Although the main building of the Singha Durbar was set on fire, the NA’s efforts protected strategically important documents in the National Security Council, Ministry of Defense, and the data center in the Ministry of Finance.
He also noted that approximately 2,000 protestors attempted to attack the Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. The NA successfully prevented them from entering the airport, ensuring its full operation from September 10. Foreign tourists stranded at the airport received appropriate protection, and security arrangements were made for various diplomatic missions and foreign nationals in Nepal.
Thapa further clarified that while the NA managed to stop protestors who barged into Singha Durbar initially, it was deemed necessary to avoid using lethal weapons to control the large crowd. As a result, the NA exercised special caution to prevent potential human casualties.