Manoj Khatri, 51, the owner of PizzaFire restaurants in Biratnagar, was discovered dead in Dharapani forest, located in Kerabari Rural Municipality, Morang on Saturday.
Khatri, who resided in Biratnagar Metropolitan City 3, went missing after leaving home on Friday. His body was located in the forest and later identified by family members.
Authorities have stated that the cause of death remains undetermined, and his body has been sent to BP Koirala Institute of Health Sciences in Dharan for an autopsy.
Investigation Ongoing
Police reported that Khatri vanished after leaving home to ride his scooter around 1 PM on Friday, 23 October. His body was found by locals in Dharapani forest, and authorities were alerted around 3:30 PM on Saturday. An investigation is currently in progress.
Family members identified Khatri’s body later that evening, but his scooter has yet to be located. The investigation is utilizing available evidence, and the cause of death will be clarified following the autopsy results.
Background as a Business Owner
Khatri had spent several years working abroad, including six years in Germany and two years in Dubai, before launching his own business in Nepal. He founded PizzaFire in Central Mall, Biratnagar, and later expanded to locations in Pipal Chowk and Golchha Chowk. Reports indicate that PizzaFire has also grown beyond Biratnagar.
Contribution to Local Pizza Culture
Local entrepreneurs noted that Khatri played a significant role in introducing modern pizza culture to Biratnagar. His international work experience made him well known in the food and hospitality sectors, and news of his death has raised concerns among local businesses.
Awaiting Autopsy Results for Clarity
The police investigation is ongoing, and the autopsy is expected to provide further insights. The missing scooter and other evidence may assist authorities in determining the circumstances surrounding Khatri’s death. More information will be available as the investigation unfolds, with a focus on uncovering the facts.