Kathmandu, March 24 At least 11 security personnel were injured in a violent crackdown on a protest against the alleged open cross-border drug trade in the border region of Nepal's Lumbini province on Tuesday.
The incident occurred in the Bardia district bordering India, where protesters obstructed vehicular movement on the Nepalgunj-Gulariya road, prompting police intervention.
The locals staged a demonstration following the death of two youths from the same family, allegedly due to the use of narcotic drugs.
Some locals were also injured in the incident.
Deputy Superintendent of Police Pramesh Bista said that police fired nine rounds in the air and used tear gas to bring the situation under control.
"Police resorted to firing and tear gas after they came under stone pelting," Bista said.
Seven individuals have been detained from the protest site, officials said.
A police assistant head constable sustained serious injuries and is currently undergoing treatment at the district hospital, according to The Kathmandu Post.
Former ward chair Ram Narayan Keshari of ward 11 said that protesters demanded the closure of the border point leading to the Laukahi market in India and action against those involved in cross-border drug trade.
Locals have also called for a complete shutdown of the border point, citing growing concerns that the area is turning into a hub for drug trafficking.