Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority has recommended the government to suspend Armed Police Force (APF) Chief Kosh Raj Onta, among other three officials, for their alleged involvement in financial irregularities and corruption. 

The anti-graft body urged the government to immediately suspend APF IGP Onta, DSP duo Suman Jung Thapa, Ram Krishna Maharjan and Inspector Bin Bahadur Thapa, saying that the accused officials could destroy evidences against them and influence the investigation process if they were allowed to continue in their posts. 

A preliminary investigation carried out by the CIAA found direct involvement of the paramilitary force head to pocket the millions of rupees by making alliance with the junior officers and supplier, a press statement issued by CIAA on Thurday states.  He has been accused of producing fake bills without supplying the amount of goods, as claimed, for APF units across the country—during fiscal years 2013/14 and 2013/14.

Sources privy to the investigation said IGP Onta had embezzled around Rs 60 million without supplying the goods. He is also accused of misusing the state coffers in the name of procurement and construction.  “Investigation into the procurement and construction is underway,” said a senior CIAA official. 

The official said the anti-graft body is separately probing into his property following the complaints against him that he have accumulated property without legal means. The CIAA has already instructed the authorities to freeze his bank accounts though it has not been disclosed. 

The CIAA swung into action after it received complaints that millions of rupees were misappropriated by APF during various procurement deals. The APF had signed a contract for procurement and supply with Sada Jyoti Suppliers after calling a tender. 

Onta is the second chief of security agencies to face removal call from anti-graft body after 2006 people’s movement. Prior to this, former Nepal Police Chief Ramesh Chand Thakuri was removed from the position before being dragged to the court on corruption charges. Thakuri was accused of embezzling Rs 280 million during the purchase of logistics meant for Nepali peacekeeping mission in Sudan.