KATHMANDU: Police in Tulsipur, Dang, have arrested two more individuals in connection with the burning of a flag belonging to the Communist Party of Nepal (Unified Marxist–Leninist) (CPN-UML).

According to the Area Police Office, Tulsipur, the two arrestee—24-year-old Bikram Pariyar of Tulsipur Sub-Metropolitan City–6 and Ramesh Rana Magar of Ward No. 4—were taken into custody late Monday night for their alleged involvement in the incident.

Earlier on Friday, police had already arrested 55-year-old Buddhabahadur Basnet of Kalakhola, Tulsipur–7.

Chief of the Area Police Office, DSP Homebahadur Parajuli, said that investigations are ongoing and efforts are underway to identify and apprehend other individuals involved in the act.

The incident occurred at around 9:30 pm on Thursday at Birendra Chowk in Tulsipur, where a crowd had gathered to welcome Rabi Lamichhane, chairperson of the Rastriya Swatantra Party.

During the gathering, a group of individuals allegedly set fire to the UML party flag. A video of the incident later went viral on social media, triggering widespread condemnation.

Following the incident, UML supporters staged protest rallies on Friday evening in Tulsipur, Ghorahi, and Lamahi.

During the protests, demonstrators attempted to attack the local contact office of the Rastriya Swatantra Party in Tulsipur.

However, police intervened promptly and prevented any untoward incidents.

Dang Police Spokesperson DSP Resham Bohara said discussions are ongoing regarding the specific legal provisions under which the arrested individuals will be charged.

Police have stated that further investigations into the incident are continuing.