Nepali officials forced to hang from helicopter to evade violent protests

Demonstrators had gathered to demand accountability over alleged misuse of public funds

Last updated: September 11, 2025 | 00:20

1 MIN READ

Nepal officials airlifted by helicopter ropes to escape protesters.

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Dubai: A shocking video from Nepal has gone viral, showing senior government officials clinging to ropes tied to an emergency helicopter in a desperate bid to escape a mob of enraged protesters, offering a dramatic illustration of the country’s deepening political turmoil as the helicopter lifted off.

The officials, accused by protesters of entrenched corruption and mismanagement, were cornered by enraged crowds before making their hasty flight.

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Demonstrators had gathered to demand accountability over economic hardship, soaring inflation, and alleged misuse of public funds. Unable to pass through the throngs, the politicians clutched at the dangling ropes as the helicopter pulled away, a scene that quickly went viral.

For many Nepalis, the extraordinary footage symbolises the desperation of a discredited elite struggling to evade both justice and public anger in a country facing mounting unrest.

Khitam Al AmirChief News Editor

With over 30 years of journalistic experience spanning from Jordan to the UAE, Khitam has spent the past 22 years reporting on national and regional news from Dubai, with a strong focus on the UAE, GCC and broader Arab affairs. As Chief News Editor, she brings extensive expertise in delivering breaking and engaging news to readers. Beginning her tenure as a translator, she advanced through roles as Senior Translator and Chief Translator before transitioning to editorial positions, culminating in her current leadership role. Her responsibilities encompass monitoring breaking news across the UAE and the broader Arab region, ensuring timely and accurate dissemination to the public. Born into a family of journalists, Khitam's passion for news was ignited early in life. A defining moment in her youth occurred in September 1985 when she had the opportunity to converse with the late British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher during her visit to a Palestinian refugee camp north of Amman. During this encounter, Khitam shared her family's experiences of displacement from their home in Palestine and their subsequent refuge in Jordan. This poignant interaction not only deepened her understanding of geopolitical issues but also solidified her commitment to pursuing a career in journalism, aiming to shed light on the stories of those affected by regional conflicts. Khitam’s commitment to accurate and timely reporting drives her to seek out news that interests readers, making her a trusted source for news on the UAE and the broader Gulf region.