Three weeks after Mamta Kafle Bhatt was reported missing, her husband, Naresh Bhatt, was taken into custody by the Manassas Park Police on Thursday morning. Police confirmed late Wednesday night that Naresh is now a person of interest in Mamta’s disappearance.
Members of the Nepali American community were present outside the Bhatt home as police escorted Naresh into a squad car. The arrest followed a major development in the case: a search warrant was issued and executed at the couple’s home on Wednesday evening, August 21. A large police presence was seen around the house, with forensic investigators focusing on the primary bedroom on the second floor. The search continued late into the night, with Police Chief Mario Lugo stating it could take another three to four hours to complete.
During a press briefing, Chief Lugo confirmed that Naresh is a person of interest and that he has not been cooperating with the investigation. This news has intensified the anxiety in the community, which has been anxiously awaiting any updates on Mamta’s case.
Previous Updates:
- August 2: Police first visited the Bhatt residence for a welfare check after Mamta had not been in contact with her family, friends, or employer. Naresh did not report her missing at that time.
- August 5: Naresh officially reported Mamta missing, prompting an investigation by the Manassas Park Police. Initially, her disappearance didn’t meet the criteria for an involuntary or critical missing person case.
- August 8: After further investigation, detectives classified Mamta as an “Involuntary/Critical Missing Person” due to the lack of contact and other concerning factors. A public appeal was made, and a missing person flyer was distributed.
- August 21: A search warrant was issued and executed at Mamta’s home, leading to a thorough investigation by forensic teams.
As the investigation continues, more details are expected to emerge. The community remains on edge, hoping for positive news in this troubling situation.
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