Festival security: over 50,000 police deployed nationwide, drones to monitor crowds in Jhapa

Nepal Police has deployed 50,458 personnel nationwide targeting Dashain, Tihar, Nepal Sambat and Chhath.

According to central police spokesperson DIG Abinarayan Kafle, the 'Festival-targeted Special Security Plan-2083' has been in effect since Asoj 21. The plan emphasizes crime prevention, reducing road accidents and the use of technology.

Priority has been given to controlling theft, robbery, looting, fraud, online fraud, gambling, betting, counterfeit currency and illegal hundi transactions. Surveillance has been tightened at border points to prevent smuggling of weapons, firecrackers, explosives and narcotics.

In Jhapa, the District Security Committee said crowds at fairs, festivals and religious and cultural sites will be monitored using drones. According to Chief District Officer Shrawan Kumar Pokharel, 2,127 security personnel will be deployed in Jhapa — 1,192 from Nepal Police and 935 from the Armed Police Force. Pickets will be stationed at 62 sensitive locations in the district.

Thirty-five teams will patrol with vehicles and 31 on foot, while seven quick-response teams will be kept ready. The district administration has instructed banks, shopping malls and business establishments to keep security guards on high alert round the clock and ensure ATMs have adequate cash. The administration has also asked that security checks be conducted at parking areas and entrances.