Mustang— Security agencies have seized e-cigarettes (vapes) worth approximately Rs 22.4 million from the Korala border point in Mustang, highlighting continued concerns over illegal cross-border trade.
According to the District Police Office, Mustang, a joint team comprising the Nepal Police, Armed Police Force, and the Mustang Customs Office intercepted a container bearing registration number Na 6 Kha 7591 on Monday evening. During the inspection, authorities recovered around 16,000 units of vapes from the vehicle.
Santosh Basyal, Information Officer at the District Police Office, Mustang, confirmed that the container driver, Pema Lama of Sunsari Rural Municipality–5 in Sindhupalchok district, has been taken into custody for further investigation. The vehicle used for transportation has also been impounded.
Officials said investigations are underway to determine the source and intended destination of the seized goods, as well as possible links to organized smuggling networks.
The Korala border has previously been identified as a sensitive transit point for illegal trade. Last year alone, vapes worth Rs 68.1 million were seized while being transported through the same border area.
Authorities say enhanced surveillance and coordinated operations will continue in the region to curb smuggling and enforce customs regulations.
