The Secretariat of Finance Minister Dr. Swarnim Wagle has expressed concern over comments attempting to link him to the clearance of electric vehicles (EVs) through the Rasuwagadhi Customs Point.

In a statement issued by the minister’s personal secretary and public relations adviser, Nabin Dhungana, it was said that investigation and inquiry processes are currently underway regarding incidents related to both the Rasuwagadhi border point and the Korala border crossing in Mustang.

According to the statement, the Ministry of Finance formed an investigation committee after reports emerged that customs clearance had been granted to vehicles that had not even reached the customs checkpoint at Rasuwagadhi. Based on the committee’s recommendations, nine officials, including the Chief Customs Officer, were relieved of their responsibilities and transferred to the Department of Customs on June 3. Further investigation is ongoing.

The statement also noted that a ministry-led investigation team is conducting on-site inquiries into vehicles that were cleared through the Korala border crossing. The team comprises officials from the Ministry of Finance, the Department of Customs, Nepal Police, and the Armed Police Force.

Authorities have already launched investigations into vehicles seized on suspicion of customs evasion, as well as the importing company involved. Detailed findings are yet to be made public.

The Secretariat stated that it has taken serious note of what it described as media campaigns and “media trials” aimed at character assassination of the Finance Minister and responsible ministry officials, spreading misleading narratives in society, and dragging the national budget into controversy while investigations are still underway.

Legal action has already been initiated against some individuals involved in such activities, while legal remedies against others are currently being pursued.

The statement also urged media organizations and the public to verify facts with responsible authorities before forming opinions about the Finance Minister and the ministry. It called on journalists to ensure accurate reporting on technical matters such as the economy, the national budget, customs procedures, and related processes by relying on verified information and factual evidence.