Protest Erupts After Armed Police Shooting Kills Local in Koshi Rural Municipality

A local man was killed by gunfire from the Armed Police Force (APF) near Laukahi in Koshi Rural Municipality–1, prompting an angry mob to attack the APF camp.

The incident occurred at the border outpost (BOP) near Laukahi, where protesters reportedly pelted stones and clashed with security personnel.

Amid escalating tensions, both the Nepal Police and APF have urged demonstrators not to resort to violence. Following attacks from multiple sides, the police reportedly used force to control the situation. Local authorities have called on the affected parties to exercise restraint and engage in dialogue.

The victim, 45-year-old Vijay Sah, was shot late Wednesday night around 1:00 AM. He was a local trader who transported goods from India for sale. Officials stated that Sah was caught in crossfire between APF personnel and a smuggler group.

The protest initiated by locals has turned chaotic, creating a tense situation in the Laukahi area. Cross-border movement has been halted, and the Laukahi section of the East-West Highway is blocked, with vehicles being diverted through alternate routes.