Environment

27 Arrested as Nepal’s Gen Z Protests Escalate into Violence

By Adinda Jasmine

Copyright tempo

27 Arrested as Nepal's Gen Z Protests Escalate into Violence

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta – The Nepalese Army took over security operations since Tuesday night, September 9, 2025. According to a report by Nepal News, a total of 27 individuals were apprehended for being involved in looting, arson, and vandalism in Kathmandu and Bhaktapur.Among them, five were detained in New Baneshwor on suspicion of robbing a bank. Another 21 were captured while looting in Bhaktapur and the Bouddha area in Kathmandu. The military explained that the operation was launched after opportunistic groups took advantage of the Gen Z protests to engage in vandalism.Seized Property and WeaponsAs reported by The Himalayan Times, the army confiscated 3.37 million rupees in cash that was looted in the Gausala-Chabahil-Bouddha area of Kathmandu. The army also discovered 31 firearms along with magazines and ammunition, comprising 23 weapons in Kathmandu and eight in Pokhara.In addition, three fire trucks were deployed to address fires caused by the rioters. The army ensured that 23 police personnel and three civilian casualties received treatment at military hospitals.The Nepalese Army urged the public to help suppress looting, arson, and destruction. Citizens were asked to promptly report incidents via SMS, WhatsApp, or Viber to the number 9863029029. “The public is urged to unite, preserve the environment, and provide accurate information before the authorities arrive,” they stated.Gen Z Protest WaveAccording to a report by Politico, the Gen Z protests stemmed from the blocking of 26 social media platforms, including Facebook, X, and YouTube, as these companies were deemed not to comply with government registration requirements as of September 3. However, this policy was seen as an attempt to censor and silence criticism.The ban further fueled longstanding public dissatisfaction. Citizens viewed the political elite living lavishly, while the people of Nepal struggled with a per capita income of less than US$1,400 annually. Despite the ban being lifted, protests continued after the police fired into crowds, resulting in 19 deaths and hundreds of injuries.The protests escalated with the burning of government buildings, politicians’ homes, and attacks on several officials. Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli finally resigned on Tuesday, September 9.Editor’s Choice: After Indonesia, One Piece Flags Fly Amidst Nepal Anti-Government ProtestsClick here to get the latest news updates from Tempo on Google News