Prakash Kafle / Kathmandu: A serious case involving criminal gain, fraud, and money laundering has been filed against Tulsa Adhikari (also known as Tulsa Ghimire), who is active on the social media platform TikTok, at the Lalitpur District Court. According to the charge sheet filed by the District Government Attorney’s Office, she allegedly defrauded an automobile businessman of over NPR 65.2 million through a premeditated “honey trapping” scheme.
Blackmail originating from a personal relationship
According to the investigation, Adhikari and the victim businessman began a professional acquaintance around 2075 BS (2018–2019 AD). On the pretext of traveling to China, they reportedly had a consensual sexual relationship. Later, she is accused of using this relationship as leverage to blackmail the businessman. The charge sheet states that she coerced him into handing over cash, gold and silver, expensive mobile phones, and vehicles by threatening to damage his social reputation.
Involvement of an organized network
Police investigations indicate that Adhikari did not act alone, but as part of an organized group. A case has been filed against 10 individuals, including Adhikari. One of them has been arrested and released on bail, while several others remain at large. Preliminary reports suggest that the collected funds were transferred through various bank accounts and sent abroad using the ‘Hundi’ system.
Indications of cross-border financial crime
Based on bank statements and digital evidence, over NPR 10 million is suspected to have been transferred internationally and laundered to appear as legitimate income. The charge sheet highlights that the funds were moved through a network extending overseas.
Current status and investigation
Police have identified Tulsa Adhikari as the chief orchestrator of the case. She is reportedly not in Nepal and has fled toward China. Efforts are underway to bring her under legal jurisdiction. The case came to light after the victim filed a complaint following prolonged mental and financial pressure. This incident has sparked widespread debate in Nepal regarding cybercrime, fraud, and the misuse of social media.
