Former Minister Surrenders After Jailbreak
Kathmandu, Nepal – Former Energy Minister Top Bahadur Rayamajhi, a prominent leader of the CPN-UML party and former Deputy Prime Minister, has returned to Sundhara Central Jail in Kathmandu. His surrender on Tuesday, September 23, 2025, marks the end of his period of escape, which began during violent protests on September 9, 2025.
Rayamajhi was among approximately 3,300 inmates who fled the facility when it was stormed by protesters amidst what has been termed the 'Gen-Z movement' demonstrations. The jailbreak left only about 500 inmates inside, and authorities have since been working to recapture or receive the voluntary return of escapees.
Involvement in Fake Bhutanese Refugee Scam
Rayamajhi was in judicial custody awaiting a final verdict in connection with the high-profile fake Bhutanese refugee scam. This elaborate fraud involved allegedly collecting millions of rupees from Nepali citizens by falsely promising to resettle them in the United States and other countries under the guise of Bhutanese refugees.
The former minister was arrested in May 2023 from Budhanilkantha, Kathmandu, after an arrest warrant was issued against him and his son, Sandeep Rayamajhi. He had been absconding after receiving news of the warrant. Prosecutors charged Rayamajhi and others with multiple crimes, including treason, organized crime, fraud, and forgery.
Legal Proceedings and Supreme Court Upholding Custody
The Kathmandu District Court initially sent Rayamajhi and 15 other individuals, including former Home Minister Bal Krishna Khand, to judicial custody in June 2023, following a two-week hearing. Rayamajhi challenged this decision in higher courts, seeking release on bail. However, both the Patan High Court and the Supreme Court upheld the district court's verdict, refusing to release him on bail.
The Supreme Court's decision in April 2024 reaffirmed the need for his continued detention as the trial progressed. Rayamajhi had previously expressed his willingness to return to custody, contacting prison officials by phone. His voluntary return is part of an ongoing effort by authorities to manage the aftermath of the mass jailbreak, with more than 100 escapees having either returned or been recaptured.
6 Comments
Katchuka
His decision to surrender is a small step towards upholding the rule of law, but the sheer scale of the alleged crimes and his initial escape underscore the urgent need for comprehensive judicial and political reform in Nepal.
Muchacho
The Gen-Z protests highlighted public discontent, and this jailbreak was a symptom. Rayamajhi's return is a necessary step, yet the broader problems of governance and judicial integrity remain unaddressed.
Coccinella
The rule of law prevails. His return is essential for trust.
Bella Ciao
This voluntary return shows a glimmer of hope for the system.
Coccinella
Glad to see him back behind bars. No one is above the law.
Eugene Alta
Credit where it's due, returning was the right call. Progress!