Live Ammunition Confirmed in Nepal Anti-Corruption Protests, Forensics Reveal

KATHMANDU/NEW DELHI – Forensic examinations have confirmed that live bullets were used against protesters in Nepal’s recent anti-corruption demonstrations, leading to the deaths of at least 33 people. The findings, released by Tribhuvan University’s Institute of Medicine, mark the first official confirmation that high-velocity firearms were involved in the unrest.

The protests, largely led by young citizens expressing anger over corruption and the government’s decision to block social media platforms, began in early September. Demonstrators called attention to the political elite flaunting luxury goods and vacations on social media, while ordinary citizens faced economic struggles. The unrest ultimately forced Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli and his government to resign.

According to postmortem reports, the Institute examined 34 bodies with bullet wounds. Of these, ten were struck in the head, 18 in the chest, four in the stomach, and two in the neck. Only one victim was hit by a rubber bullet. The remaining fatalities were confirmed to have resulted from live ammunition fired from high-velocity firearms, which can shoot bullets at speeds exceeding 600 meters per second.

The department could not determine the exact type of firearms used, as all bullets were distorted or fragmented during the shootings. While Nepal police have access to high-velocity weapons, such arms are generally not used for crowd control. Obtaining firearms legally in Nepal is difficult, as citizens must prove their life is under threat to qualify for a gun license.

During the unrest, reports and videos circulated on social media showing protesters with severe head and chest injuries from non-rubber ammunition. These visuals raised public concern and prompted calls for investigations into the events.

Former Prime Minister Oli had denied ordering security forces to fire on protesters, suggesting that “infiltrators” may have been involved. In a social media post on September 20, Oli urged an investigation into the incidents, noting that automatic weapons not typically in police possession had been fired.

Authorities have yet to provide a complete response. Kathmandu District Office officials stated they had no knowledge of live ammunition being used, clarifying that police were permitted only to use rubber bullets, batons, and water cannons. Meanwhile, Nepal Police have said they will comment only after the interim government’s investigative committee concludes its work.

The anti-corruption protests left 74 people dead and more than 2,000 injured. While the recent findings confirm the use of live bullets, many questions remain about accountability and the chain of command during the violence. The investigation will likely play a key role in determining responsibility and preventing future incidents.

The events in Nepal highlight the tensions that can arise when citizens protest against government corruption and the heavy-handed responses that can escalate into deadly violence. Observers stress the importance of transparent investigations and adherence to international human rights standards to restore public trust and prevent further unrest.

Disclaimer:
This article is based on official statements, forensic findings, and media reports. Gccnews24 has not independently verified all claims.