Kathmandu — Private telecom operator Ncell has suffered heavy losses after its headquarters in Lainchaur was attacked during the September 9 (Bhadra 24) protests. The building was vandalized, set on fire, and looted, leaving behind major property and financial damage.
How the Attack Happened and Escalated
On Tuesday around 2 p.m., a group of people, hiding among protesters, entered the Ncell premises. At the time, only 10–15 staff members and security guards were inside, as most employees had been told to leave early due to unrest and the possibility of curfew orders.
The attackers threatened the guards, locked them in a room, and smashed the front glass panels before storming the reception and customer service areas. Fires were set, and floor by floor, property was destroyed.
Important company documents, including certificates, permits, and land papers, were burned. Computers, printers, televisions, coffee machines, and other office equipment were looted. Staff lockers were also broken into, with laptops, jewelry, and personal belongings stolen.
Later in the evening, a larger group returned. Locals said they seized company and rental vehicles from the basement parking, drove them outside, and set them on fire. Employees’ private cars were also damaged. Witnesses reported that the violence intensified after 5 p.m. and continued until 10 p.m. “It wasn’t just vandalism—there was looting and theft as well,” one resident said.
Police Action and Company Response
Ncell filed a complaint with police the next day, handing over CCTV footage. The company called for those responsible to be identified and punished, for stolen property to be recovered, and for damages to be compensated.
Employees have since been instructed to work from home. In a message to staff, management assured that Ncell would recover and continue its role in Nepal’s digital development.
Despite the destruction, Ncell confirmed that mobile and internet services remain fully operational. The company, which has been serving Nepal for over 20 years and is one of the country’s top taxpayers, said a full damage assessment is still underway.
