Man Arrested In Thamel After Five Vapes Test Positive For Cannabis Compound THC

Police have arrested a man in Kathmandu’s Thamel area after laboratory testing reportedly found a cannabis-related compound in five vape devices seized from him.

The arrested individual has been identified as 38-year-old Kabir Magar, a resident of Lalitpur Metropolitan City–1. Police said the five vapes were confiscated from him on Asar 25 and later sent for laboratory examination.

Laboratory Test Finds THC

According to Superintendent of Police Durgaraj Regmi of the Narcotics Control Bureau, laboratory tests confirmed the presence of tetrahydrocannabinol, commonly known as THC, in the seized vapes.

THC is the main psychoactive compound found in cannabis. Vape products containing the substance can deliver it in aerosol form when used.

Police have not yet disclosed the quantity or concentration of THC found in each device.

Australian Passport Recovered

Police said Magar is a non-resident Nepali and that an Australian passport was recovered from his possession at the time of the arrest.

Authorities have not said whether he had recently entered Nepal from Australia or how the vape devices were obtained.

Drug Case Investigation Underway

Magar is currently being investigated under Nepal’s drug laws, according to police.

Investigators are expected to examine where the vapes came from, whether they were intended for personal use or distribution, and whether other individuals were involved.

No court ruling has been issued, and the allegations remain under investigation.

Growing Concern Over Illegal Vape Products

The arrest comes as Nepal has seen several recent cases involving the illegal import, storage and movement of vape products.

Authorities have previously seized thousands of vapes in separate operations linked to suspected smuggling and customs violations. However, the Thamel case is different because laboratory testing reportedly detected THC inside the devices.