Probe underway against 12 arrested after Holi clash in Dhangadhi; injured ASI Saud in critical condition

Dhangadhi: Police have launched a detailed investigation against 12 individuals arrested following a violent clash during Holi celebrations in Dhangadhi-13, Kailali village, on Tuesday evening. Authorities stated that Assistant Sub-Inspector Double Saud, who sustained a serious head injury during the incident, remains in critical condition.

According to the District Police Office, Kailali, the 12 individuals taken into custody at the scene have been under interrogation since Wednesday morning. Police reported that the situation escalated after a dispute between two groups while playing Holi turned violent.

Superintendent of Police Narendra Chand, Chief of the District Police Office Kailali, said that although the incident began as a minor altercation between children, adults later became involved and allegedly attacked police personnel. “The investigation is focused on whether this incident was a planned attack or triggered by provocation at the time,” he stated.

ASI Double Saud is currently receiving treatment at Maya Metro Hospital in Dhangadhi, where doctors have described his condition as critical. Police Inspector Balram Pandey and two other injured personnel are also undergoing treatment at the same hospital.

On Tuesday evening, a local group attacked a police team that had arrived to control the clash. After the crowd became uncontrollable, police fired six rounds into the air to restore order. A police vehicle was also damaged during the incident.

Following the clash, a joint team comprising the Nepal Army, Armed Police Force and Nepal Police was mobilized to prevent further violence. Police confirmed that further investigation into the incident is ongoing.