Post by : Rameen Ariff

In a recent development, Nepal authorities have clarified that three Pakistani nationals linked to the terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed left Kathmandu for Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, contradicting earlier claims by the Bihar Police that they had entered the Indian state of Bihar.

The three men, identified as Hasnain Ali, Adil Hussain, and Mohammad Usman, were reported by Bihar Police to have crossed into poll-bound Bihar from Nepal through Birgunj. The Bihar police even released their names, photographs, and passport details to the public.

However, on Friday, Nepal Police, the Immigration Department, and Kathmandu Airport Authority provided a detailed account of their movements. According to Nepal, all three men flew from Kathmandu to Kuala Lumpur on separate flights at different times.

Details of the Travel

• Hasnain Ali and Adil Hussain arrived in Nepal on August 8 using Pakistani passports, traveling from Karachi via Dubai on FlyDubai flight FZ 575. They landed in Kathmandu at 6:25 pm and completed immigration procedures smoothly. On August 15, both flew to Kuala Lumpur on Malaysian Airlines flight MH 115, which departed at 10:45 pm.

• Mohammad Usman arrived in Nepal on August 10, also traveling from Karachi via Dubai on FlyDubai flight FZ 573. He landed in Kathmandu at 11:20 pm, with immigration clearance recorded at 11:58 pm. Usman departed for Kuala Lumpur on August 24 via Nepal Airlines flight RA 415, departing at 9:35 pm.

All three had entered Nepal on tourist visas and left the country at different times.

Nepal’s Statement

Nepal Immigration spokesperson Tikaram Dhakal stated that no alerts or notices regarding these individuals had been received from Indian authorities or Interpol. Their passports were not on any watchlist, and the authorities emphasized that they would have detained the individuals had any such alert existed.

The authorities also said there is no confirmed evidence that the three men entered Indian territory during their stay in Nepal. As of now, no official communication has been received from Indian security agencies regarding their movements.

Investigation and Security Measures

Following the public release of information by Bihar Police, Nepal has launched its own investigation into the activities of these individuals during their stay. The investigation includes reviewing CCTV footage from the airport and other locations to determine their movements while in Kathmandu.

Nepal authorities reiterated their commitment to border security and strict immigration checks, highlighting that all three individuals completed immigration procedures properly and left the country as per legal requirements.

Why This Matters

The case highlights the importance of accurate cross-border information and communication between countries. Misunderstandings like the one between Bihar Police and Nepal authorities can create confusion and affect public perception. Accurate data and verification are crucial, especially when dealing with terrorism-related cases.

The clarification also shows Nepal’s efficient monitoring of its airports and immigration system, ensuring that individuals do not overstay or move without proper clearance. Nepal’s swift investigation following the Bihar Police release demonstrates a commitment to regional security and transparency.

Regional and Security Implications

The incident comes at a sensitive time, as polling in Bihar is underway. Allegations of cross-border entry by potential terrorists can have political and social implications, which makes accurate information critical.

For India, the clarification by Nepal stresses the need for coordination with neighboring countries on security matters. Sharing intelligence, alerts, and watchlists promptly can prevent misunderstandings and strengthen regional cooperation against terrorism.

The recent statements from Nepal authorities confirm that Hasnain Ali, Adil Hussain, and Mohammad Usman departed for Malaysia and did not enter India, countering earlier claims by Bihar Police. Nepal’s detailed reporting and investigation highlight the country’s commitment to law, security, and transparency.

The case underscores the importance of accurate intelligence, cross-border communication, and careful verification, especially when dealing with sensitive terrorism-related information. Cooperation between nations is essential to maintain security and public trust while preventing unnecessary panic or misinformation.

As investigations continue, the focus remains on regional safety, accurate reporting, and timely action by authorities in Nepal and India to ensure no gaps exist in monitoring and controlling cross-border movements.