Morang: Ten foreign nationals have been detained for allegedly misusing tourist visas to conduct camps linked to Christian missionary activities in various districts of Nepal. The individuals, who are citizens of Brazil, Canada, and the United States, were detained on allegations of involvement in Christian religious activities in Bargachhi, Ward No. 7 of Kanepokhari Rural Municipality, Morang.
According to the Ministry of Home Affairs, the documents of ten foreign nationals, including foreign medical professionals associated with an organization named Mercy Development, were seized and forwarded to the Department of Immigration. The foreigners had entered Nepal on tourist visas and were involved in operating a health camp without the required authorization, the ministry stated.
The camp was scheduled to run for four days, beginning on Kartik 8, with ten foreign nationals participating in providing services. Pastor Pavel Dangol had reportedly coordinated preparations for the camp.
The land where the camp was organized was reportedly intended for the construction of a local hospital. Earlier, Pastor Bangdel had conducted Christian religious classes in buildings on the property. Local businessman Nawaraj Shrestha, from Bargachhi, had constructed six buildings of various sizes on three kattha of land, reportedly for the purpose of building a hospital. The buildings were later used for religious activities and other programs. Shrestha reportedly organized the camp in an attempt to ease the dispute surrounding the property.
The foreign nationals entered Nepal on October 22 and 23. According to immigration officials, their visas were valid until dates ranging from November 6 to November 21. Police have launched an investigation into the allegations that the individuals misused their tourist visas to engage in religious proselytization.
