Ncell files police complaint after arson, vandalism and looting; vows to rise again
भदौ ३०, २०८२ १७:३६
Kathmandu: Telecommunications provider Ncell has filed a police complaint against those involved in vandalism, arson, and robbery at its offices during the Gen-Z protests, while pledging to recover and continue serving the nation.
According to the company, its head office ‘Ncell Icon’ in Lainchaur, Kathmandu, was heavily damaged on 9 September, along with its regional offices in Mahendranagar, Dhangadhi, and Pokhara. Ncell said the incidents not only caused massive physical losses but also endangered employees and disrupted services.
In the complaint filed at the District Police Office, Kathmandu on Monday, Ncell accused criminal groups of taking advantage of the protests. It alleged that the attackers locked security personnel in a room after threatening to burn them alive, then vandalized and set fire to the building.
The complaint states that protesters broke into the customer service center and reception on the ground floor before moving floor to floor, vandalizing equipment, burning and stealing original certificates, licenses, landowner certificates, and other vital documents, along with company safes and cash.
They also looted electronic equipment, laptops, televisions, refrigerators, ovens, printers, coffee machines, and other office assets across all ten floors. Lockers belonging to employees were broken into, with personal belongings and jewelry stolen. Meeting hall monitors and fitness equipment were thrown out, some set on fire, while much was looted.
The group also seized company and third-party vehicles, drove them into the courtyard, and set them on fire. Employee vehicles were also vandalized and destroyed. Ncell has provided police with CCTV footage and a list of stolen items, requesting the arrest and prosecution of those responsible and the return of stolen property.
Despite the destruction, Ncell said it ensured uninterrupted service during the crisis, providing free local calls, SMS, and internet for three days. The company also congratulated newly appointed Prime Minister Sushila Karki, welcomed the changes brought by the youth movement, and expressed condolences to those killed and injured.
Issuing a statement, Ncell vowed to recover and serve with greater determination:
“For 20 years, Ncell has supported Nepal’s transformation journey in the ICT sector, creating jobs, accelerating economic growth, and contributing to building a Digital Nepal. Today, we reaffirm our commitment to serve the country and its people with resilience and determination. We stand shoulder to shoulder with our employees, customers, and the public, and are deeply grateful for the solidarity and support extended to us so far.”
Ncell said a full assessment of damages is underway and pledged to “rise again” after the attacks.
पछिल्लो अध्यावधिक: भदौ ३०, २०८२ १७:३६
