Nepal’s Foreign Ministry has initiated diplomatic efforts to secure information and seek the release of a Nepali citizen, Amrit Jha, who is currently in custody of Iranian security forces.
Jha, a 30-year-old seafarer employed by a Dubai-based shipping company, was reportedly detained along with others near Iran’s Keshan Island, close to the strategically significant Strait of Hormuz.
Key Announcements / Highlights
- Nepali citizen Amrit Jha detained by Iranian authorities
- Arrest took place near Keshan Island in the Hormuz region
- Three individuals, including Jha, remain in custody
- Nepal government coordinating through honorary consul and embassy
- Legal steps initiated by employer for release
Official Statement
Nepal’s Foreign Ministry confirmed that it is working to establish contact with Jha and understand the circumstances surrounding his detention. Officials said there is still no clear information on the reason for his arrest or the exact date it occurred.
A ministry spokesperson stated that authorities are coordinating with Nepal’s honorary consul in Iran and the Nepali embassy in Qatar to gather details and assist the family.
Officials also indicated uncertainty over whether the detention is linked to recent regional tensions or predates them.
Context / Background
The Strait of Hormuz is a critical global shipping route, particularly for oil transport. The region has seen heightened security sensitivities due to geopolitical tensions, leading to stricter monitoring of maritime activity.
According to available information, Jha was part of a group of seven individuals on a vessel that departed Omani waters in December. While four were released shortly after being detained, Jha and two Indian nationals continue to remain in custody.
They have reportedly been transferred from Keshan Island to a detention facility at Abbas Port in Iran’s Hormuz region.
Jha had obtained official labour approval in July 2024 to work as a seaman in the UAE. His employer, Black Sea Marine LLC, has reportedly engaged legal representation in Iran and filed a petition seeking his release.
Public Impact
The case has drawn attention to the risks faced by migrant workers, particularly those employed in maritime sectors operating in sensitive geopolitical regions.
For families of overseas workers, the incident underscores concerns around safety, communication gaps, and access to timely consular support in emergencies.
Jha’s family, based in Udayapur district of Nepal, has been seeking updates after reportedly receiving a voice message indicating his detention.
Conclusion
Nepal’s diplomatic outreach is ongoing as authorities work to clarify the circumstances of the detention and ensure consular access.
Further developments are expected as legal proceedings progress and communication channels with Iranian authorities continue.
Input & Images : Hindusthan Samachar
Last Updated on: Wednesday, March 25, 2026 1:39 pm by Monisha Angara | Published by: Monisha Angara on Wednesday, March 25, 2026 1:39 pm | News Categories: News
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