Police have detained a 24 year old man in Dolpa district after discovering 1,225 kg of jatamansi, commonly known as spikenard, which was allegedly collected and hidden illegally in a local forest.
The suspect, identified as Arjun Budhathoki from Khani in Ward 1 of Kaike Rural Municipality, was apprehended based on tips about his illegal activities regarding medicinal herbs in Laini forest, Kaike Rural Municipality 1.
Authorities recovered the jatamansi, which was packed in 49 sacks.
49 Sacks of Medicinal Herbs Recovered
Police acted on reports of medicinal herbs being collected and concealed in the forest.
Jatamansi, or spikenard, is a Himalayan medicinal plant used in traditional medicine and herbal products. Its collection and trade are regulated by law, making proper authorization essential for gathering and transporting the plant.
The police have not disclosed the estimated value of the seized herbs or where they were intended to be sent.
Suspect Sent to Forest Office
Following Budhathoki’s arrest, he was referred for further investigation and prosecution to the Division Forest Office in Dolpa, according to police.
Investigators will look into the reasons behind the collection of the herbs and determine the necessary legal actions.
The investigation is ongoing, and the allegations against the suspect have not yet been confirmed by authorities.
This case underscores the efforts of authorities to prevent unauthorized collection of medicinal plants in Nepal’s mountainous regions.