Kin of Nepalis serving in the Russian army staged a demonstration in Kathmandu on Thursday demanding their repatriation.

Police arrested 12 protesters after they staged a demonstration at the south entrance of Singha Durbar, the main administrative hub of the country.

They also called for the release of five Nepalis held captive by Ukrainian forces.

The government lacks clear data on Nepalis serving in the Russian army. As many as 32 Nepalis have lost their lives in the Russia-Ukraine war so far.

Over 200 family members have registered separate complaints at the Department of Consular Services for the rescue of their relatives.