KATHMANDU, March 29: The security detail of former King Gyanendra Shah has been downsized. The Armed Police Force (APF) recalled 10 security personnel from the former king’s security team at 11:30 PM.
Previously, a 25-member team under the command of a Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) was assigned to his security. Following the reduction, only 15 personnel remain in place for former king’s security. “There will be another decision in a few days,” said a senior APF official.
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The reduction comes as the government moves forward with plans to scale down all facilities provided to former heads of state. Since the abolition of the monarchy, the government has continued to provide housing and other amenities to the former royal family.
The Nagarjun Palace, which the former royals have been utilizing, was allocated to them as part of these provisions. However, Nirmal Niwas remains the private residence of former King Gyanendra.
At its peak, the government had deployed 155 APF personnel to guard the former royal family. Additionally, three vehicles, including fuel provisions, had been allocated for their security.
Of the total personnel, 25 were specifically assigned to former King Gyanendra’s protection. The security detail for other family members has now also been withdrawn.
“The security personnel assigned to family members will report back to the APF task force within two days,” a source at the APF headquarters stated. However, APF Spokesperson DIG Kumar Neupane confirmed that 15 personnel remain under the command of a DSP, in accordance with established procedures.